Blue Jays’ Trade Targets Suárez, Naylor Shine for Mariners in ALCS

The Toronto Blue Jays faced significant challenges during the trade deadline this season. They sought impactful players to enhance their chances in the MLB Playoffs. The team strengthened its pitching lineup, bringing in starter Shane Bieber and reliever Louis Varland. However, their pursuit of a power hitter fell short. Ty France was the key addition, but he hasn’t made a mark on the postseason roster.
Blue Jays’ Missed Trade Targets: Suárez and Naylor
At the deadline, the Blue Jays had the chance to acquire two noteworthy players from the Seattle Mariners. Regrettably, the team couldn’t finalize those deals. This situation has become quite apparent during the American League Championship Series (ALCS), where the Mariners now lead the series 3-2. The players in question are Eugenio Suárez and Josh Naylor.
Josh Naylor’s Impressive Performances
Josh Naylor, hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, presented a compelling case for addition to the Blue Jays. His homecoming story added emotional weight to the possibility of him joining the team. Instead, Naylor ended up with the Mariners and has since become a formidable opponent. Although he struggled against the Detroit Tigers in the ALDS, Naylor excelled against Toronto, boasting a batting average of .412 in the ALCS. He has also achieved:
- 1.238 OPS
- Three runs scored
- One stolen base
- Two home runs
- Three RBIs
Notably, Naylor made history as the first Canadian to homer against Toronto in postseason play. His words reflect the joy of playing for his hometown team: “It’s been super fun to play in front of my friends & family.”
Eugenio Suárez’s Critical Contributions
Eugenio Suárez also emerged as a crucial player, proving his offensive prowess throughout the season. With 49 home runs and 118 RBIs split between the Mariners and the Arizona Diamondbacks, Suárez has shown his ability to deliver in clutch situations. Despite earlier struggles in the ALCS, he played a pivotal role in Game 5, hitting two home runs, including a grand slam that secured a crucial victory for Seattle. His ALCS stats include:
- Batting average: .316
- OPS: 1.065
- Three runs scored
- Two home runs
- Six RBIs
Blue Jays’ Reflection on Trade Misses
The Blue Jays have enjoyed success in the playoffs, notably against the New York Yankees in the ALDS. However, as the ALCS unfolds, the reliance on key players to step up during critical moments has become more evident. By missing out on acquiring Naylor and Suárez, the Blue Jays are left to witness the duo impact their chances at advancing further. The pressing question remains: what if they had acted decisively during the trade deadline?