Blue Jays should aggressively pursue acquiring Jameson Taillon

There are reports that the Pittsburgh Pirates are actively shopping pitcher Jameson Taillon, this is the type of acquisition the Blue Jays should aggressively pursue. The 29-year old does not come without risk, however, the potential reward Taillon carries is well worth the gamble.

According to Mark Feinsand of the MLB Network, the Pirates could move Taillon as early as this weekend as the Bucs are in full rebuild mode. There is no indication that the Blue Jays are actively pursuing the right-hander but it would not be out of character for the pitching starved Jays.

There was a recent update that the Yankees are said to be in talks with Pittsburgh and have emerged as the frontrunner, however, multiple team have reportedly made offers. Toronto definitely has the prospect capital and relationship with General Manager Ben Cherrington to consummate a deal if they are so inclined. Cherrington also has a vast knowledge of the Blue Jays farm system from his previous position with the club.

Taillon made just seven starts in 2019 before undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, however, all signs point to the hurler being healthy for the start of the 2021 campaign. His best season came in 2018 when he went 14-10 with a 3.20 earned run average and a 4.9 WAR in 32 starts for the Pirates.

Sources tell me and @adamdberry there are indications that Jameson Taillon will be the next Pirates player to be traded -- possibly in the next day or two. The Pirates have already dealt Joe Musgrove this offseason, so it would not be a surprise if Taillon is moved, too.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) January 23, 2021