5 Blue Jays players that should've been traded at the deadline

Brandon Belt

This one might be a polarizing choice, and we can certainly understand if you don't see why Brandon Belt should be on this list. However, at least hear (read) this out, even if we're just playing a bit of devil's advocate.

The truth is, while not terrible by any means, Belt is having one of his less effective seasons at the plate. And where this has been particularly evident -- and worrying -- is when the Blue Jays have runners in scoring position (RISP).

We appreciate this is a team-wide issue for the Blue Jays, but the 2016 All-Star is third-worst among all regular with RISP, batting just .180. It doesn't bode well for the team when someone who is meant to be one of your best hitters, is struggling in potential scoring situations.

Not helping the cause, Belt is also on course for a career single-season high 35.1 percent strikeout rate. Plus, he's coming off a month where he had a lowly .190 batting average in 18 games.

Another couple of reasons it might have been good to move the 35-year-old, are his age and contract situation. With him set to became a UFA after this season, the Blue Jays risk losing him for nothing.

Yes, we appreciate Belt is a left-handed bat who is the Blue Jays' main DH. Yes, he's traditionally been an offensive threat throughout his 13-year Major League career.

However, it's those reasons why the Blue Jays should have tried to move him ahead of the trade deadline. Don't forget there were a lot of teams looking to add a quality bat, and the two-time World Series champion might have appeared as an enticing option, worthy of a decent return haul.

As with Pearson, it would have been a gamble because of what Belt is still capable of. However, if anything, he would have been a more worthwhile risk that his younger teamate.