Ben Rice hits tiebreaking home run in ninth inning, Yankees beat Blue Jays 5-4.
The Toronto Blue Jays are heating up at the perfect time. Over the past month, they've gone 18-5—leading the MLB with a .274 batting average, a .356 on-base percentage, and 132 runs scored. This explosive performance has propelled them past the Yankees to the top of the American League East. With the trade deadline approaching on July 31, all eyes are on what the Blue Jays will do next.
Ready to Buy Big Before the Deadline
The Blue Jays have emerged as strong contenders, and analysts expect them to be active buyers. ESPN’s Buster Olney believes now is the perfect time for Toronto to go all-in.
“Other teams see how well they’re doing and know this is a rare opportunity,” Olney told TSN1050.
Toronto’s offensive turnaround has caught everyone by surprise, especially after Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s massive contract extension. The team’s young talent is clicking—and with just one big bat added, they could be unstoppable.
Could Suarez or Naylor Be the Missing Piece?
Olney suggests the Jays are showing interest in Arizona’s Eugenio Suarez and Canadian slugger Josh Naylor. Both could be perfect fits in the middle of Toronto’s already strong lineup.
“They’ve got this fun, young group that’s more than the sum of its parts,” said Olney. “But if they add a powerful bat like Suarez or Naylor, they might be the team to beat in the AL.”
Suarez is a hot commodity. He’s blasted 36 home runs this season and leads the league with 86 RBIs. At 34, he’s in the final year of his seven-year, $66 million deal and is set to become a free agent.
But the Blue Jays will face competition. The Yankees, Cubs, and Mariners are also in the hunt, with deeper farm systems. This could make it harder for Toronto to land Suarez.
Josh Naylor Brings Power—but Is There Room?
Naylor would be another exciting option. However, with Guerrero Jr. locked in at first base, Naylor would need to serve as a full-time designated hitter.
“That means Springer would have to play more outfield,” Olney noted. “Is the team okay with that? He’s more effective when he gets time as a DH.”
It’s a trade-off the Jays must seriously consider if they want more power in the lineup.
Pitching Arms Also on the Wishlist
Toronto isn’t just looking at hitters. Bullpen help is also a priority. Names like Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax from Minnesota and Kevin Ginkel from Arizona are being tossed around.
But the biggest bullpen prize might be St. Louis closer Ryan Helsley. If the Cardinals continue to slide, Helsley could become available.
“Some GMs are quietly hoping the Cardinals keep losing so Helsley hits the market,” Olney said. “He’s second only to Suarez in terms of impact players this deadline.”
Strong Rotation Anchored by Gausman
While offense and bullpen help are top priorities, the Jays’ starting rotation is holding strong. Kevin Gausman, in particular, has been dominant. He recently pitched seven solid innings against the Yankees, allowing just one run and striking out eight.
“Gausman is built for big playoff moments,” said Olney. “He’s no longer just a nice guy—he’s a competitor with grit.”
With Gausman leading the rotation, the Blue Jays have a Game 1 ace ready for the postseason.
All Eyes on the Blue Jays
Toronto is just one power hitter away from becoming the most feared team in the American League. If they can land Suarez or Naylor and add depth to the bullpen, their postseason push will be one to watch.
As the trade deadline looms, the Blue Jays’ bold moves could define the playoff picture—and possibly their championship hopes.
