MLB Rumors: Blue Jays, Mariners In Trade Talks

The Toronto Blue Jays are in the market for starting pitching this offseason, while the Seattle Mariners are hoping for another big bat to plug into their lineup. The result, according to MLB Insider Jon Morosi is that the two are in trade talks.

Discussed possible Teoscar Hernández for Chris Flexen trade on @MLBNetwork today. Both are eligible for free agency after 2023 season. When Flexen signed with #Mariners after pitching in Korea, terms allowed him to become Article XX(B) free agent prior to 6 years of @MLB service.

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 15, 2022

The possible swap would send Toronto outfielder Teoscar Hernandez to the Mariners for right-hander Chris Flexen. It's not known at this point if other players are involved in the talks. Both Hernandez and Flexen will be free agents after the coming season. 

The trade would certainly make sense for Seattle, as Flexen is likely already squeezed out of their starting staff; he was removed from the rotation late in the season as he fell behind Luis Castillo, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Robbie Ray and Marco Gonzales in the pecking order. Flexen has had a 3.66 ERA in his two years with the M's, with a 1.26 WHIP. He doesn't miss a lot of bats, as he only posts a 6.2 K/9 mark.

From the Jays' perspective, a one-for-one trade like this would be a lot more curious. Hernandez is a key power bat in the middle of the Toronto lineup, while Flexen would likely be a No. 5 starter. It would be expected that the Jays should be able to obtain a higher-grade arm for a potent bat like Teoscar's. 

The potential of a Hernandez trade is certainly something that's been out there, however, and we'll continue to keep an eye on it. 

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