Blue Jays swing deal for former Gold Glove outfielder Myles Straw from Guardians

The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant acquisition on Friday, adding outfielder Myles Straw to their roster in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians. In exchange for Straw, the Blue Jays received $3.75 million in cash considerations and $2 million in international signing bonus pool space for the 2025 period. Cleveland, on the other hand, received a player to be named later or cash considerations.

Straw, who appeared in seven games with Cleveland last season, spent the majority of the year at Triple-A Columbus. In 123 games, he posted a .240 batting average with 18 doubles, six triples, three home runs, and 47 RBIs. The 30-year-old outfielder also showcased his speed on the basepaths with 30 stolen bases and displayed a solid 10.7% walk rate.

Notably, Straw was the recipient of the Gold Glove Award in 2022, highlighting his defensive prowess in the outfield. He is set to earn $6 million this year and $7 million in 2026, with a guaranteed $1.75 million buyout for a 2027 team option. Cleveland will provide Toronto with financial compensation totaling $3.75 million over the next two years.

Originally drafted by the Houston Astros in the 12th round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft, Straw made his MLB debut with the Astros in 2018. Throughout his career, he has appeared in 562 major-league games between Houston and Cleveland, compiling a .244 batting average with 77 doubles, nine triples, six home runs, 125 RBIs, and 89 stolen bases.

In addition to acquiring Straw, the Blue Jays also received $2 million in international signing bonus pool allocation from Cleveland. This additional funding will support Toronto in its pursuit of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki. With their international signing pool now standing at $8,261,600, the Blue Jays have the resources necessary to make a competitive offer to Sasaki, who is also drawing interest from the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres.

Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-hander, is considered an international amateur by MLB and can only sign a minor league contract subject to the same bonus pools as Latin American prospects. He has until Thursday to reach an agreement with a Major League Baseball team, making the upcoming days crucial for both Sasaki and the interested clubs.