Blue Jays: Twins, Yankees interested in Marcus Stroman, Ken Giles package

The Minnesota Twins have reportedly checked in on a potential package deal including Marcus Stroman and Ken Giles, with the New York Yankees also apparently joining the chase.

According to Scott Mitchell of TSN, both the New York Yankees and Minnesota Twins have “inquired” about a trade package involving Marcus Stroman and Ken Giles.

Mitchell adds that Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins would likely “prefer to maximize the returns separately”.

In a separate tidbit of information, La Velle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the Twins have “definitely checked on Giles”.

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Stroman, of course, had previously been connected to the Yankees about a month ago, though there has since been no word about talks heating up. Now 28, Stroman could be a tremendous fit for either team, seeing as his 3.18 ERA is the 15th best among qualified major-league pitchers and the eighth best in the American League.

Additionally, Stroman’s 104.2 innings pitched lead the Blue Jays, as do his five wins (tied) and his 1722 pitches thrown.

Giles, 28, has been equally, if not more, impressive this season. In 31 appearances, Giles has pitched to a phenomenal 1.45 ERA and has converted 13 of 14 save opportunities, striking out a ridiculous 53 in just 31.0 innings.

One of the American League’s premier high-leverage relievers, Giles could be a massive addition to any contending roster in his own right. So far though, the Blue Jays have not been reported to be aggressively shopping him. More to come.