Blue Jays trade reliever John Axford to Los Angeles Dodgers

Rather unsurprisingly, the Toronto Blue Jays have traded John Axford at the deadline, acquiring some pitching depth in exchange for the veteran righty.

Less than twenty minutes before Tuesday’s non-waiver trade deadline, the Blue Jays traded Canadian reliever John Axford to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor league pitcher Corey Copping.

Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet was the first to report Axford’s deal to the Dodgers, while Mark Feinsand of MLB.com named Copping being the piece coming back to the Jays.

Copping, 24, is a right-handed reliever who was drafted by the Dodgers in 2015. This year at Double-A Tulsa, he’s pitched to a 2.53 ERA over 46.1 frames, striking out 55 while walking 24.

Prior to 2018, Copping spent time with the Dodgers’ Triple-A and High-A affiliates. The native of Pasadena, California was not on MLB Pipeline’s Top 30 prospects for the Dodgers this year.

Those who have watched Copping pitch have said that he boasts a great fastball and some average complimentary pitches. Despite this, he’s had trouble staying in the strike zone and has struggled with control throughout his brief minor league career.

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The veteran Axford, born and raised in Port Dover, Ontario, has pitched to a 4.41 ERA in 51.0 innings, striking out 50 and walking 20. Appearing primarily as a middle relief arm, Axford is being flipped to the Dodgers in hopes of pitching in October and helping the contending Dodgers reach a World Series in 2018.

At face value, this trade appears to be beneficial for both sides. Axford will provide the Dodgers with formidable bullpen depth, while Copping will likely head to Buffalo to start.

A proud Canadian and even prouder Blue Jay, Axford will surely be missed by Blue Jays fans everywhere. His light-hearted approach to the game, along with his colourful online personality has made him an endearing favourite to fans.

Still, Axford, a free agent after this year, was a prime candidate to be dealt due to his experience and moderate success so far this year.

Jays Journal will continue to bring you the latest analysis and news as more trade deadline stories develop.