Blue Jays Target Max Fried in Free Agency

ESPN's Jeff Passan has identified Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner and St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley as ideal trade targets for the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays, respectively, this offseason. Hoerner, a Gold Glove player under team control for two more years, offers a cost-effective solution for the Mariners, who are constrained by a limited free agency budget of approximately $16 million. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays have an opening in their bullpen following the non-tender of Jordan Romano and should pursue Helsley, who has excelled as a closer and is likely to be traded due to the Cardinals' financial constraints. Additionally, Passan highlighted left-handed pitcher Max Fried as a perfect addition for the Blue Jays, who are looking to strengthen their rotation amidst a competitive free agent market. Fried, coming off a successful season with the Braves, would bolster the Jays' pitching staff, which may need to adapt following injuries to key players. As the offseason unfolds, both teams are expected to explore strategic trades and signings to enhance their rosters for the upcoming season.