Blue Jays: What’s the trade market for Estrada like now?

Other possibilities who could use rotation help

Seattle Mariners

The Mariners are reportedly interested in Sonny Gray, but they’ll have competition for his services. As will be the case with many teams, they might be looking at fall back options as well, and unfortunately Estrada now fits that bill for many teams.

The Mariners have Felix Hernandez and James Paxton to form a solid one-two punch, but they could use an upgrade, especially one with playoff success and experience like Estrada has had. Losing Hisashi Iwakuma and Drew Smyly were big blows to the rotation, so they could use the help.

Milwaukee Brewers

Maybe a reunion with his old team would make some sense, as the Brewers could use a boost to their staff if they’re going to be serious about contending this year. They’ve had a solid performance from Jimmy Nelson, and a resurgent season from Matt Garza, but the rotation hasn’t been all that hot outside of that. Brent Suter has pitched well since moving into the rotation, but it’s hard to say if he can keep it up.

Estrada is familiar with the Brewers’ organization, and they shouldn’t have any problem paying for his salary for the remainder of the year either. They’re a team that’s looking to build from within in many ways, so Estrada’s low-cost, high potential upside, probably makes the most sense as an approach for their front office.

He spent the 2010-2014 seasons in Milwaukee before the Blue Jays traded for him, sending Adam Lind the other way. At the time, Estrada was pretty much unknown to Blue Jays fans, and figured to compete for the long-man position in the bullpen. Little did we know that he’d go on to become one of their best starters over two and a half seasons. With all due respect to Lind, that deal certainly worked out in the Jays’ favour.