5 bold Blue Jays predictions for the MLB trade deadline

3. The Blue Jays get their power bat in Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs

In the quest to bring a much-needed power, run-producing bat to the ballclub for the stretch run, the Jays do end up dealing with the Chicago Cubs, but the acquisition isn’t Stroman, but instead former NL MVP Cody Bellinger. Bellinger has been a revelation this year after signing a one-year “show-me” deal with the Cubs for 2023. For the season, Bellinger has amassed a strong .305 batting average, to go along with an .884 OPS, 137 OPS+, with 49 runs scored, 12 home runs, 35 RBI, 12 stolen bases, 21 walks and 46 strikeouts in just 62 games played. These numbers were similar to his output during his early productive years with the Los Angeles Dodgers before he started his decline in 2020.

With that kind of production, it is exactly what the Jays need to boost their offence to the next level as they head into the final two months of the season. Not to forget, Bellinger is also a former Gold Glove winner, with 21 DRS in 2019 playing in the outfield that year, so he can provide some solid defence as well too. With the Jays, Bellinger will slot in interchangeably in the outfield and DH spots, as manager John Schneider will enjoy some fun and flexibility for the rest of the season for his everyday lineup. It may be too much of a good thing with the overflow of elite players on the roster, but that is a good problem to have.