Blue Jays GM Hints At Trade: "Market For Catching Is Exceptionally Strong"

As the offseason began, there were a number of sources for teams looking for a starting catcher—through free agency or trades. Now, there appears to be just one legitimate source for a backstop-needy team: the Toronto Blue Jays.

As for the possibility of trading a young C, GM Ross Atkins said market for catching is "exceptionally strong." Means Jays will have option of deals if they so choose. Yet Atkins said #BlueJays are "100% comfortable (keeping all 3 and) remaining in that position of strength."

— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) December 19, 2022

The Jays have been mentioned as a trade partner for teams in need, as they have three solid major league catchers on the roster: Danny Jansen, All-Star Alejandro Kirk, and top 2022 prospect Gabriel Moreno. 

GM Ross Atkins today called the market for catching "exceptionally strong." Meaning it's now a seller's market. And he's the only seller. However, keeping his negotiating hat on, he insists that the Jays are "100% comfortable (keeping all 3 and) remaining in that position of strength," as per Toronto beat writer Ben Nicholson-Smith.

Since the offseason has begun, free agent catchers like Willson Contreras, Christian Vazquez and Mike Zunino have all come off the board, as well as lower-tier options like Austin Hedges and Omar Narvaez. In addition, top trade candidate Sean Murphy of the Oakland A's was scooped up in a deal by the Atlanta Braves.

That certainly leaves the Toronto Trio as the place to shop for teams looking for a legit backstop. 

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