Three offseason trade targets for Blue Jays to add an impact bat

The Toronto Blue Jays and their fans are fresh off the most heartbreaking loss in franchise history.

Putting the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers on the brink of elimination with two cracks to win the World Series at home, only to lose two nail-biters that each came down to the final out. It’s going to take a long time to get over it, if that’s even possible to do. 

However, they'll have to turn the page rather quickly because in just three days, the negotiating window for free agents expires, and all are free to sign wherever they so choose. 

Toronto will be busy in an attempt to retain the likes of star shortstop Bo Bichette and starting pitchers Shane Bieber, Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer. At the same time, the front office must be active in improving its roster from the outside, whether that’s via free agency or trade. 

While there are some intriguing names for the Blue Jays to target on the open market, given their needs, heading down the trade route could make the most sense.

Here are three ideal trade targets for the Toronto Blue Jays to add an impactful left-handed bat to their lineup for 2025-26 and beyond:

Oneil Cruz | Pittsburgh Pirates

Cruz’s name popped up in trade rumors ahead of the deadline in August, and it’s fair to wonder if he still could be available if Pittsburgh gets the right offer. 

The 27-year-old has all of the tools to be one of the best hitters in baseball, standing at 6-foot-7, 240 pounds with extreme power and bat speed. His numbers last season (20 HRs, 61 RBI), while solid, didn't reflect his talent, but it's understandable given the lack of protection around him on the Pirates.

In Toronto, Cruz could slot in behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bichette, immediately becoming the most dangerous left-handed hitter in a right-heavy lineup.

Matt Wallner | Minnesota Twins

The 39th overall pick back in 2019 may not publicly be on the trade block, but after its sell-off at the deadline, it doesn’t feel like anyone is untouchable in Minnesota. 

Like Cruz, Wallner, at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, has big-time power, and the Blue Jays saw that firsthand when he crushed three HRs and six RBI during their three-game series in Toronto in late August.