MLB Hot Stove: Blue Jays and Padres Make Moves That Could Change the Game for Roki Sasaki

As Major League Baseball's offseason heats up, teams are busy making strategic moves ahead of spring training, which opens in less than a month. The anticipation is building with pitchers and catchers set to report soon, leading into exhibition games that pave the way for the regular season. While the Cubs and Dodgers will kick off the season in Japan, March 27 remains the official Opening Day. Here's everything you need to know about the latest trades and rumors shaping the league, particularly regarding the Japanese sensation, Roki Sasaki.

Blue Jays Bolster Roster with Myles Straw Acquisition

In a notable transaction, the Toronto Blue Jays have acquired outfielder Myles Straw along with a significant cash infusion and international bonus pool space from the Cleveland Guardians. In exchange, the Guardians will receive a player to be named or cash later. Reports suggest the Blue Jays are gaining approximately $2 million in bonus pool funds, which could play a crucial role in future signings, including potentially targeting Roki Sasaki.

It's important to note that despite this trade, there is no indication that Sasaki has made a commitment to join the Blue Jays. Toronto’s investment in Straw, who has struggled after winning a Gold Glove, raises questions: will they keep him on the active roster, or is he merely financial leverage?

Padres Make International Play with Carlos Alvarez Signing

Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres are also making headlines as they prepare to sign left-hander Carlos Alvarez, an international amateur free agent, indicating their approach to building a robust pipeline of talent. The Padres join the Blue Jays and Dodgers as finalists in the high-stakes race for Roki Sasaki, a pitching prodigy from Japan.

The decision to pursue Alvarez may signal to some analysts that the Padres are preparing for life without Sasaki, especially as the team allocates budget towards his signing. Alvarez, 17, has drawn attention for his impressive skills on the mound, including a fastball that consistently reaches the low 90s and an arsenal featuring a disturbing slider and a fade-inducing changeup. These qualities have scouts excited about his potential.

A's Ramping Up Spending with Signing of José Leclerc

In other developments, the Oakland Athletics have made a splash by signing former Texas Rangers closer José Leclerc to a one-year contract worth $10 million. This deal marks another step in the A’s offseason strategy, adding to their recent signings of notable players like Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs. Although the A's have been active in the market, their overall payroll still hovers well below the $100 million mark, raising questions about their long-term financial strategy.

As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how these moves impact the hunt for Roki Sasaki. Will the Blue Jays and Padres alter their strategies based on acquisitions or concerns about their capacity to sign him? The answers will unfold rapidly as teams jockey for position in a highly competitive landscape leading up to the 2024 season. Stay tuned for more updates and analyses as we get closer to spring.