Blue Jays acquire 2023 World Series champion utilityman from Rangers in trade

The Toronto Blue Jays and Texas Rangers have reportedly agreed to a trade before Monday's 6 p.m. EDT deadline. According to Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News, the Blue Jays have acquired infielder/outfielder Josh Smith from the Rangers. "Rangers are trading Josh Smith to Toronto," Grant wrote on X. "Getting lefty A

Blue Jays acquire Angels ace Jose Soriano, filling rotation hole for two seasons  USA Today

The Los Angeles Angels have traded starting pitcher Jose Soriano to the Toronto Blue Jays, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

Blue Jays acquire Jose Soriano, trade 3 prospects to Angels  ESPN

José Soriano is in the midst of a breakout year with the Angels.

Chicago Cubs acquire RHP Kevin Gausman from the Toronto Blue Jays for 2 minor-leaguers  Chicago Tribune

Cubs acquire Kevin Gausman in a trade with the Blue Jays, AP source says  Toronto Star

While Gausman isn’t having his best season, he has quietly been one of the best starters in baseball over the last five years.

José Fermin hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 5-1, avoiding a three-game sweep

Fermin’s tiebreaking hit in 4-run 9th helps Cardinals beat Blue Jays 5-1, avoid series sweep  AP News

It’s clear that the spark from last season has died down in the wake of this season’s struggles, and one significant aspect of last year’s deep run has shrunk.