The trade deadline has now passed in Major League Baseball, and the Toronto Jays have been active.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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However, general manager Ross Atkins' actions have left fans hungry for more.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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It must be said that the needs were many. This team is clearly missing a starting pitcher, as well as a reliever or two, and a good emergency hitter.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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It's safe to say Atkins has been trying to plug all the holes. Mitch White, acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers, can fill the fifth starter position.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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The Jays sacrificed big to get relievers Anthony Bass and Zach Pop from the Miami Marlins, including one of the organization's top youngsters, Jordan Groshans (pictured).
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Anthony Bass is a great reliever who is not giving up any runs this season. A big acquisition.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Zach Pop is a Canadian pitcher who can get away with it, but he probably won't be a factor this season.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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You never know, a Canadian playing at home might surprise!
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Observers generally agree that while the improvement in relievers is interesting, the Jays may still be missing a quality arm.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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The Yankees got better, with the acquisition of Frankie Montas.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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The Seattle Mariners, who the Jays will be battling with for a playoff spot, also made some good acquisitions like Luis Castillo...
Blue Jays trade deadline
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... and Matt Boyd!
Blue Jays trade deadline
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With that said, the most dramatic trade of the day involving the Jays was the one bringing in With Merrifield.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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A respectable hitter, the main thing to note is that Merrifield is unvaccinated, and he missed his former team's visit to Canada earlier this season.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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The player from the Kansas City Royals is expected to settle soon according to Toronto reporters.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Still, the distraction wasn't necessary in Toronto, especially for a player with something to prove.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Still, you can tell this is an interesting bet, as Merrifield has already hit for over .300 and stolen 45 bases in one season.
Blue Jays trade deadline
Credit: Jul 29, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) looks on against the Detroit Tigers at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
Fortunately, the Jays' division rivals didn't want to stand out at the trade deadline.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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That means the Jays could manage to make their way into the playoffs even if they aren't the most improved team.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Good news recently: more fear than harm for starter Alek Manoah, who was injured in a game. He shouldn't miss any starts.
Blue Jays trade deadline
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Thankfully, as the depth at this position is virtually non-existent. It will be an interesting end to the season!
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