Blue Jays’ Curtis Granderson drawing interest from Cleveland

As the non-waiver trade deadline quickly approaches, a veteran outfielder has reportedly caught the eye of the leader of the American League Central, adding another potential fit to the growing list of possible trading partners…

According to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, veteran outfielder Curtis Granderson is on the Cleveland Indians “radar” as they try to add another bat for the last few months of the season. Cafardo also names Reds speedster Billy Hamilton and Miami utilityman Derek Dietrich as other potential fits.

Admittedly, it’s no surprise that the Indians are interested in Grandy’s services. A seasoned veteran with over 200 postseason at-bats, he’s shown significant power this year and could be acquired for a modest package.

Cleveland, who are 56-47 on the season, hold a commanding eight-game lead in the AL Central over the middling Minnesota Twins. Still, they’ve received a tremendous lack of production from their outfielders, with Bradley Zimmer on the long-term disabled list, and the rest of the outfielders struggling to drive in runs with regular effectiveness.

Previously, Granderson had been connected to the Phillies, who were also seeking to add a corner outfielder bat with experience. Aside from the initial report, no additional details have surfaced regarding the connection.

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While not officially connected to Grandy, the Oakland Athletics have expressed the need for a left-handed hitting corner outfielder. Even though this fit seems too perfect, expect the A’s to be frequently mentioned in trade conversations involving Granderson.

Signed to a one-year, $5 million deal in the winter, Granderson has appeared in 85 games this year for the Jays, slashing .234/.336/.421 with 10 home runs, 31 RBI, 15 doubles and two stolen bases. With 86 strikeouts, he’s walked 36 times and has 106 total bases.

Having scored 38 runs (fifth on the team), he’s logged innings in all three outfield positions. Honoured as the team’s nominee for the Heart & Hustle Award, the native of Chicago consistently demonstrates class, integrity, and excitement both on and off the field.

Regardless of whether this rumour materializes into a legitimate conversation, it’s a foregone conclusion that Curtis Granderson will be dealt at the trade deadline, much to the chagrin of Blue Jays fans.