Reports are coming in via FOX Sports and Ken Rosenthal. Rosenthal is reporting that a potential three-team deal is in the works involving the Cincinnati Reds, Toronto Blue Jays and another team, possibly the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
The deal, which is still in the negotiation stage, would involve the Reds sending former All-Star right fielder, Jay Bruce, to Toronto. The Blue Jays would, in turn, move outfielder Michael Saunders to the Angels to open up room for Bruce. It’s still unclear where the prospect haul would come from, Toronto or Los Angeles, but there are viable options on both teams.
As reported earlier this month by TGH, Bruce is an intriguing trade option for any team. The two-time All-Star finished 10th in MVP voting in 2012 and 2013; he also won the Silver Slugger in both of those seasons. He comes with team control through 2017 and could become a relatively cheap option given his potential.
Bruce will be 29 in April and has shown signs of being a dynamic player, despite the previous two seasons in which he’s only managed to hit .217 and .226.
For the Angels, they’d be receiving a 29-year old Michael Saunders. He’s slated to become a free agent in 2017.
Stick with The Game Haus as more news comes out about a potential trade.
*UPDATE 7:25* Bruce recently took Toronto off of his limited no-trade list. He can be sent to the Blue Jays without his approval, per Ken Rosenthal.
*UPDATE 9:21* Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register, is now reporting that the deal is nearing its completion.
*UPDATE 9:43* Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the medical portion of the trade is going on. It appears the deal will be done before midnight.
*UPDATE 9:25 2/23/2016* Looks as if a physical is keeping the deal from happening. Deal is considered dead.
*UPDATE 11:30* All Cincinnati Reds have arrived at camp, including Jay Bruce.