Blue Jays fans blindsided by inclusion of promising rookie in Andres Gimenez-Guardians trade

On Tuesday evening, the Toronto Blue Jays and Cleveland Guardians agreed to a trade involving All-Star second baseman Andres Gimenez. First reactions around the industry included a whole lot of head-scratching because Gimenez was not exactly viewed by many as the Guardians' top trade chip. That distinction belongs to Josh Naylor and Lane Thomas.

But here we are, and Gimenez is headed north of the border. The slick-fielding infielder is going to give the Blue Jays yet another (another...) glove-first player who has a bat with just enough upside in it to get you excited. He's a winner of three straight AL Gold Glove Awards and will be a welcomed addition to the 2025 Blue Jays.

However, the news of the return (at least part of it) was what truly sent shockwaves through Blue Jays nation. Heading back to Cleveland is infielder Spencer Horwitz, who just wrapped up a highly promising rookie campaign for the Jays. As of right now, the trade is Gimenez and relief pitcher Nick Sandlin heading to the Blue Jays in exchange for Horwitz, but there are more details emerging by the minute.

Horwitz, 27, appeared in 97 games for the Jays this past year, recording 19 doubles and 12 home runs with 40 RBI, 46 runs scored and a .790 OPS. His 125 OPS+ had him 25 percent better than league-average at the dish, but his long-term fit on the Blue Jays was a bit murky.

Horwitz added second base to his defensive repertoire on the fly in 2024, all at the big league level. He often looked out of place and uncomfortable at the position, but it's easy to see why that was. Learning a brand new position in the big leagues is no easy task. He's a first baseman by trade, but his ability to at least fill the second base position for Cleveland, as well as his usefulness as a designated hitter, contributed to his value in their eyes.