In a bold yet calculated projection, a prominent MLB writer has predicted that the Toronto Blue Jays will part ways with right-hander Chris Bassitt before the trade deadline—sending shockwaves through both the fanbase and the clubhouse. The move, while still speculative, is being framed as a pivotal step in the Blue Jays’ strategic pivot amid a tumultuous 2025 campaign.
Bassitt, 35, signed a three-year, $63 million contract with Toronto in December 2022. At the time, it was hailed as a coup for a club chasing championship dreams. In 2023, he delivered with a 16-8 record and a 3.60 ERA over 200 innings. But now, less than two years into the deal, trade buzz is growing louder.
The prediction, detailed in a feature by a veteran MLB columnist, outlines the factors driving this potential move: Toronto’s underwhelming performance, a stagnant offense, and the rapid emergence of younger, cheaper arms like Ricky Tiedemann. The club, hovering around fourth place in the AL East, is under immense pressure to retool without launching a full rebuild. Trading Bassitt—who still commands respect as a durable, intelligent veteran—could net them valuable prospects or controllable bats.
“There’s no shortage of teams desperate for pitching depth,” the writer notes. “Bassitt is a plug-and-play No. 3 starter for a contender, with postseason experience and a contract that, while large, isn’t crippling. He could bring back exactly what the Jays need to reset.”
Among the rumored suitors? The San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, and even a dark horse—Bassitt’s old club, the Oakland A’s. Sources speculate that any deal would hinge on how much of Bassitt’s remaining salary the Blue Jays are willing to eat. Toronto might need to swallow $15–20 million to maximize the return, but the writer argues the long-term gain could be substantial.
Bassitt, known for his cerebral approach and seven-pitch mix, hasn’t commented publicly on the rumors. However, insiders say he’s “not surprised,” aware that baseball is ultimately a business. Teammates have expressed support, but the possibility of losing a respected clubhouse leader has left a noticeable cloud over the team.
Fans are divided. Some view the move as overdue—an honest assessment of a core that never quite clicked. Others see it as a surrender. “Trading Bassitt sends a message,” one fan tweeted. “But what message are we sending? That we’re done?”
In the end, this predicted trade isn’t just about Chris Bassitt. It’s a statement on the Blue Jays’ trajectory, their willingness to make uncomfortable decisions, and their hunger to remain competitive in a brutal division. If the forecast proves true, expect ripples far beyond Toronto. The countdown to July’s trade deadline just got a lot more interesting.
