New York Mets outfielder Jay Bruce has been the subject of trade rumors this MLB offseason.
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Blue Jays Showing Interest in Bruce
Monday, Nov. 14
The Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly discussed a trade for Bruce with the Mets, ESPN's Jim Bowden told MLB Network Radio on Sunday.
According to Bowden, the Blue Jays want to set up a platoon in left field, with Melvin Upton Jr. already in place.
A platoon in left field would make sense. Upton hit just .226 against right-handed pitching last season with a dreadful .274 on-base percentage. He also struck out 116 times against right-handers, as opposed to just 39 times against lefties.
Bruce, on the other hand, hit .262 with 27 home runs and 77 RBI against righties. He had an OPS of .872 against righties compared to his .678 OPS against lefties.
It wouldn't be the first time the Blue Jays have made a run at Bruce. According to TSN, Toronto "had a trade for Bruce fall through last season."
Bruce, 29, remains an excellent power hitter. He finished 2016 hitting .250 with 33 home runs and 99 RBI, leading the Mets to pick up his $13 million option for 2017.
But his future in New York is likely tied to free agent Yoenis Cespedes. If the slugger signs elsewhere in free agency, the Mets are more likely to retain Bruce for the middle of their lineup. If Cespedes re-signs with the Mets, however, Bruce would become a valuable trade chip who could used to acquire assets needed in other areas.
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