When a team consistently fails to live up to its high expectations, the time eventually comes for ownership to make a major decision. Does it abandon what could be a futile plan and start from scratch, or does management employ some good old-fashioned faith and trust that the established talent on the roster can still fulfill the grand vision? The Toronto Blue Jays are quickly approaching this very crossroads.
It is clear that the 36-43 team wants to slow down the ticking clock for as long as possible, but with a little over a month until the MLB trade deadline, the only thing that can reasonably be done to make them feel optimistic about the future is winning. They just snapped a seven-game losing streak and are a concerning six and a half games behind the Boston Red Sox for the final American League Wild Card spot.
In other words, The Blue Jays might not be able to avoid their day of reckoning any further. Trading quality players for future assets could be the most effective bandage the front office can put on this wounded club. Though, does that mean every notable name will be unloaded before the July 30 deadline?
Dealing away either Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Bo Bichette, or both of them, would communicate a harsh message to fans– it could be a while before competitive baseball returns to The Six. The two-time All-Star shortstop is bracing himself for that exact possibility.
“No. Not surprised at all,” Bichette told Hazel Mae when asked if he would be surprised to be traded. That response, while completely understandable and realistic, could add to fans' distress.
Bo Bichette was supposed to be a vital part of Blue Jays' future
Bichette and Guerrero are each under contract until after the 2025 season, but Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins can maximize their return value by moving them this year. Although the former is hitting just .234 with a .622 OPS in 67 games, he has proven himself to be a reliable offensive producer for most of his five-year run on the MLB roster.
There are multiple World Series contenders who may covet Bichette's bat and track record. Though, that could also be a reason for Toronto to invest long-term in the 26-year-old. His continued presence on the squad would suggest somewhat of a contention timetable, whereas a complete fire sale can require fans to have an inordinate amount of patience.
The Blue Jays find themselves in quite the pickle, one that cannot be so easily fixed. Anxiety is bound to be high no matter what route this franchise takes at the MLB trade deadline. But Bo Bichette needs to stay focused on what he can control, which is regaining his All-Star form.
The 2016 second-round draft pick is seeking a hefty contract extension, so whether he stays in Toronto or lands elsewhere, he needs to start raking the baseball again. Bichette returned from the injured list (calf strain) on Tuesday against the Red Sox but went hitless.
He and the Blue Jays look to get back on track versus the New York Yankees (52-30) Thursday night at the Rogers Centre.
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