4 Blue Jays deals that would rival the Lakers' trade for Luka Dončić

No one saw Dončić going to the Lakers. Could the Blue Jays pull off a deal of that magnitude?

Los Angeles Lakers Introduce Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber & Markieff Morris
Los Angeles Lakers Introduce Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber & Markieff Morris | Harry How/GettyImages
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Michael Harris II brings a friend with him

Michael Harris II, Matt Olson
Atlanta Braves v Seattle Mariners | Steph Chambers/GettyImages

Blue Jays receive: OF Michael Harris II and 1B Matt Olson
Braves receive: SS Bo Bichette, RHP Trey Yesavage, RHP Jake Bloss and cash

A trade sending Harris from the Braves to the Blue Jays would be a game-changer for both teams. Harris is one of the best young outfielders in baseball, a Gold Glove-caliber center fielder with power, speed, and contact skills. He’s already locked into a long-term contract, making this trade feel like a long shot, but if Bichette doesn't sign an extension before the season starts, he has to be traded and Atlanta will have a hard time saying no to a big bat to pair with Ronald Acuña Jr.

Why the Blue Jays would want Harris and Olson

Toronto has been searching for a long-term solution in center field for a few years now. The Blue Jays need an everyday player who can lock down center field for years to come while contributing at the plate.

Enter Michael Harris II, who has already shown that he's one of the best two-way outfielders in the game. That said, he had a bit of a dip last year, which could make him a little more tradable.

Adding Harris would give the Blue Jays elite defense in center field for the next decade via a player who fits into their long-term core. Taking on Olson's salary (he's owed $130 million over the next six years) is more than doable for this the Blue Jays.

Why the Braves would consider trading Harris and Olson

At first glance, trading Harris might seem crazy because he’s young, cheap (locked into an eight-year, $72 million deal), and productive. However, there are reasons why the Braves might be willing to consider moving him under the right circumstances.

The Braves have outfield depth to spare, as Acuña is locked in as their right fielder for years to come and is draped by Jarred Kelenic and Bryan De La Cruz. If the Braves want to address a bigger need (like starting pitching or power in the infield), they could afford to trade Harris and remain strong in the outfield. Additionally, the Braves have been aggressive in trades before, which shows that they’re not afraid to make bold moves.

Olson might seem like a big piece to include in this trade, but moving on from his salary would allow for them address other areas of need. Olson is one of their highest paid players, is under contract through 2029, and is already 31. The Braves also already have an everyday DH in Marcell Ozuna, so they might prefer to add some youth and positional flexibility to their roster.

This trade would work for both sides. Toronto gets to swap offense for defense and secure a cornerstone outfielder who fits their long-term vision, while Atlanta gets a major upgrade for their infield bats while getting some money back.

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