The other trade proposal would involve the perennial contenders in the NL West with the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers.
With the Dodgers deploying the likes of the struggling Gavin Lux, James Outman, Chris Taylor and company in their everyday lineup, adding Bichette could help change their entire roster setup for the better. If Bichette plays at shortstop, a returning Mookie Betts could then be used in the outfield or at second base to essentially remove one of the above feeble bats from the daily lineup.
As for the Jays, with Danny Jansen rumoured to be leaving town by the trade deadline, they would get back a solid catching prospect in Diego Cartaya. Cartaya had been the Dodgers’ No. 1 prospect for each of the past two seasons, but has since fallen to seventh in 2024. Known for his power and production, he has struggled mightily since making his move up to Double-A last season and continuing into Triple-A this season. This year, he has batted just .234 with a .700 OPS with 33 runs scored, 6 home runs and 35 RBI in 60 games played across two minor league levels. Nevertheless, with Jansen usually hitting also around that average as well throughout his MLB career, Cartaya would appear in line to be his ideal replacement.
Landon Knack has already made it to the majors this season with the Dodgers and has done well in a starting role for the ballclub. In eight games, including seven starts, Knack had posted a 1-2 record with a solid 3.23 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, along with 10 walks and 36 strikeouts in 39 innings pitched. So having shown the ability to get big league hitters out, the Jays would be getting a proven rotation piece that they could confidently insert into their starting five right away if needed.
So for either of these trade proposals with legitimate contenders, the Jays would be getting key pieces that could directly help the club in the not-so-distant future. In some cases, they could even help right away. Overall, given that Bichette had been underperforming all season, the impressive haul that the Jays would be receiving makes total sense for the team. This holds true even if they have to end up including Gausman, as in the case with the Braves’ proposal. As a result, they should make the deal happen if it ever presents itself.