Blue Jays Trade Deadline Acquisition Will Enhance Rotation

The Toronto Blue Jays desire to add an ace to the rotation has become a reality with the acquisition of Shane Bieber. The Blue Jays rotation consists of Jose Berrios, Kevin Gausman, Eric Lauer, Max Scherzer, Chris Bassitt, and now Shane Bieber.

Bieber is 30 years old, and while he hasn’t pitched since the start of the 2024 season, he is making huge strides with his recovery from Tommy John surgery. He pitched in his first rehab assignment for the Buffalo Bisons and was dominant. Bieber retired seven of the final eight hitters he faced while throwing 47 of his 62 pitches for strikes. Before landing on the shelf, he recorded a 2-0 record with a 0.00 ERA with 20 strikeouts. The Blue Jays have a six-man rotation, which benefits them as this gives other starters more rest time. This has proven to be effective for Gausman, who has pitched better with more rest. Gausman will take the mound against the Colorado Rockies on Monday evening.

Blue Jays Trade Acquisition Will Boost Rotation

Why Bieber Is the Real Deal

Bieber will provide quality innings that will allow the Blue Jays to make a dive in the postseason. They currently remain in first in the AL East. In addition, there is a good chance he could be leaned on in the rotation if the Jays make the playoffs. A return to his dominant form would be an enhancement for the Jays’ rotation, pending that he can avoid landing back on the shelf.

Bieber has several upsides. For starters, the right/ handed starter is a former Cy Young winner (2020). In addition, he possesses a solid track record of eating up innings. He also has the tools to be a front-of-the-rotation starter. He’s able to command pitches, change and mix speeds, and generate ground balls. Overall, this makes him a valuable asset. All in all, his experience and previous postseason success make him a high-upside trade acquisition.

High-End Pitching Talent

Bieber has proven he is an ace, capable of strutting his dominance on the mound. His 2020 Cy Young Award and two All-Star appearances demonstrate his pitching talent.

Command and Control

Bieber possesses a knack with painting the corners of the strike zone, and this is where hitters are forced to make contact, but they

swing and miss.

Mix of Pitches

He turns to his fastball, slider, curveball, and changeup, where he can keep hitters off balance.

Ground Ball Inducer

Bieber’s ability to effectively produce ground balls lends a boost to his pitching, as it decreases extra-base hits and adds to his high-caliber performance.

Health and Durability

While he’s coming back from a significant injury, his recent rehab outings point to a positive trajectory. Bouncing back to his previous form will be a huge boost for the Blue Jays’ rotation.

Value in a Trade and Last Word on Bieber

The Blue Jays acquired Bieber at a lower cost because of his Tommy John surgery. This makes him a high-reward, low-risk acquisition. It will be interesting to see how Bieber pitches in his debut with the Blue Jays this season as they look to continue to dominate in the AL East. The Blue Jays have their work cut out for them with the Boston Red Sox now taking second in the AL East.

Main Photo Credits: David Dermer-Imagn Images

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