Blue Jays: A Hypothetical Trade Package for Shohei Ohtani

Adding Major League Ready Pieces

C Alejandro Kirk

I debated on whether the aforementioned Kirk or Gabriel Moreno would be the better fit in this trade. After much thought, I went with Kirk, as his experience and reputation carries weight in a trade of this magnitude.

I also believe including Kirk would solidify the deal, as Kirk is a game-changer who has an upward trajectory after a strong 2022 season. The Angels aren’t utterly desperate for a catcher, as Max Stassi brings value with his defensive abilities. This would allow Kirk to fill a role similar to his last year, a season split between catcher and DH, and fit well into creating a potent Angels lineup. Kirk would have no shortage of replacements on the Jays, as Danny Jansen and Gabriel Moreno are both capable of being impact catchers as well.

OF Lourdes Gurriel Jr.

Gurriel Jr. fills the hole in left for the Angels and allows Raimel Tapia, Cavan Biggio, and Whit Merrifield to all get more playing time. Gurriel is an impending free agent, the only one in this package, but he fits the Angels lineup quite well and would add to their competitiveness for 2023. With Gurriel’s contract being up after next season, he’s one of the more expendable starters the Jays find themselves with.

One More Prospect

1B/OF Spencer Horwitz

Horwitz fits in here as another throw-in piece that I think the Angles would value. Being a disciplined left-handed hitter, something the Jays could use more of, Horwitz fits the Angels’ picture well given their thin outfield depth. Horwitz is on track to crack the majors next season, and being a member of the Angels could expedite that.