7 Blue Jays least likely to be dealt at the trade deadline

George Springer

For veteran George Springer, who has certainly been Mr. Consistency throughout his career, he has uncharacteristically had an up and down year so far for the 2023 season. The four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger could normally be counted on in providing solid run production year in and year out, but unfortunately, this year he is currently on pace for one of his worst offensive outputs in his entire career.

Up until now, Springer has hit only .249 with a .701 OPS, with 56 runs scored, 13 home runs, 41 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 102 games played. At this rate, he would be on track for less than 20 home runs and 60 RBI in total by season’s end, which is way below his usual standards. His struggles have been so evident that he has been recently moved out of his usual leadoff spot in favour of the hot-hitting Whit Merrifield, as Springer has gone an unthinkable 1-for-39 in his last ten games.

Looking back, perhaps his concussion and shoulder injury that he suffered from the AL Wild Card series last year against the Seattle Mariners still has some lingering effects on him, or perhaps the wrong side of 30 is beginning to creep up on him. But despite the underperforming season, the Jays are not likely to move Springer at the trade deadline because his current huge contract is definitely not an attractive aspect for potential buyers. In addition, the Jays totally believe that given Springer’s track record, he will eventually work out of his funk and starting leading the team to success again like he has always done for the previous two years with the ballclub. At least the Jays and their faithful certainly hope so.