Blue Jays Lead AL East, Target Pitching Upgrades

The Toronto Blue Jays, now leading the AL East after a strong offensive surge, have shifted to aggressive buying ahead of the July 31 MLB trade deadline. The team is prioritizing pitching acquisitions, targeting starters like Seth Lugo, Zac Gallen, and Merrill Kelly, as well as relievers including David Bednar and Dennis Santana, to address a rotation ranked 25th in ERA amid injuries to Yimi Garcia and Alek Manoah. While the addition of a power bat such as Eugenio Suarez or Josh Naylor is also being considered, management stresses the importance of maintaining clubhouse chemistry and seeks high-character players. The Los Angeles Dodgers remain in the market for pitching due to their own injury woes, but analysts suggest the Blue Jays could outbid them for top arms like Lugo. Both teams are expected to be aggressive as they look to shore up weaknesses for playoff contention. The evolving trade market highlights the Blue Jays' urgency and willingness to make bold moves.