Toronto Blue Jays left field trade possibilities

Sep 24, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks designated hitter Mark Trumbo (15) in the on deck circle against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Mark Trumbo  –  Arizona Diamondbacks

Contract Remaining:  1 year, $6.9M  (Arbitration eligible in 2016)

The slugging Mark Trumbo has come up in several of our conversations over the past few months.  After seasons of 29, 34 and 32 home runs with the Los Angeles Angels from 2011-2013, he was traded to the Diamondbacks last season where he would appear in just 88 games due to a stress fracture in his foot.

While the power numbers are encouraging, Anthopoulos may be hesitant to look at Trumbo as he has stated that the team is trying to move away from boom-or-bust hitters that strike out too frequently.  I’m looking at you, Juan Francisco.  Trumbo’s 2013 season is a perfect example of this, as he matched 34 home runs with 184 strikeouts.

Although he is yet another right handed bat, Trumbo could also offer value at the 1B and DH positions.  Justin Smoak and Daric Barton seem to be in competition for a roster spot there, which isn’t the most encouraging situation.  Trumbo has appeared in 177 career games as a left fielder, but is no gazelle.  The Jays would need to be willing to take some serious lumps on defense in exchange for his splash at-bats.

The contract here is somewhat manageable, and another season of power numbers could turn Trumbo into a strong designated hitter or bench bat once Michael Saunders returns.  I do feel that Anthopoulos is look for more of a bandaid at the position, though.  With the Diamondbacks involved, this is a situation with the potential of Dioner Navarro being included in a deal, although his left-handed bat has become even more valuable after the Saunders injury.

Next: Cleveland's versatile veteran