The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up to be sellers at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline.
Among the Blue Jays' top trade candidates to watch with the trade deadline almost here are Shane Bieber, Kevin Gausman, Daulton Varsho, George Springer, Max Scherzer, and Jeff Hoffman. With this, Toronto could end up having a very different-looking roster once the trade deadline has passed.
Although there are many current Blue Jays trade candidates to watch, there are also some former Blue Jays players who have the potential to be traded. This is because both pitcher Robbie Ray and infielder Ty France are prime trade candidates.
Both Ray and France have been the subject of trade chatter leading up to the deadline. It is easy to understand, as both players are pending free agents and play for teams on the wrong side of the playoff line. With that, there is certainly a good chance that these former Blue Jays will be on the move.
Why former Blue Jays Ray & France should generate trade interest
Teams looking for pitching help should undoubtedly have Ray on their radar. The 34-year-old pitcher has been among the Giants' rare bright spots this season and would be a big pickup for a contender looking to boost its starting rotation. In 21 appearances this season with the Giants, the former Blue Jays pitcher has a 9-6 record, a 3.16 ERA, and 101 strikeouts.
Ray's strong resume also adds to his appeal in a major way. The two-time All-Star memorably won the AL Cy Young Award with the Blue Jays during the 2021 season. With this and his strong play this season, he should be a very popular target for playoff teams leading up to the deadline.
In 37 appearances over two seasons with the Blue Jays from 2020 to 2021, Ray posted a 14-8 record, a 3.03 ERA, and 273 strikeouts.
As for France, he would be a nice addition for a team looking to improve its infield. After signing a minor-league deal this offseason with the San Diego Padres and making their Opening Day roster, France has been very good this season. In 81 games, the former Blue Jay has 16 home runs, 46 RBI, and a .285 batting average.
With France having a solid year at the plate and a bargain contract, he should generate plenty of interest from playoff teams looking for more depth. If the Padres end up committing to be sellers, they would be wise to sell high on him. In 37 games last season with the Blue Jays, France had one home run, eight RBI, and a .277 batting average.
