The Toronto Blue Jays are struggling to find the same offensive production that helped them reach the World Series last season. 49 games into 2026, they rank 13th in batting average (.243), 26th in on-base percentage (.306) and 26th in slugging percentage (.369)
While shortstop Bo Bichette left in free agency (New York Mets), the Blue Jays still have a strong core. That includes first basemanVladimir Guerrero Jr., center fielder Daulton Varsho, designated hitter George Springer and catcher Alejandro Kirk, who is recovering from a thumb injury.
To add another threat, though, Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer predicts the Blue Jays will trade for Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte.
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"A trade out of Arizona might be Marte's best bet to chase after the ring that eluded him in 2023," Rymer wrote. "And besides, there's been some tension between him and his D-backs teammates in the past... He should be on the Blue Jays' radar, as they need more pop arguably just as much as they need starting pitching."
Marte is putting together a decent season in Arizona. He's appeared in 45 games, accumulating 179 at-bats, 42 hits, 27 runs scored, seven home runs, 22 RBIs and 14 walks. The three-time All-Star is also slashing .235/.289/.413 with a .702 OPS.
With a career OPS of .819 since making his debut in 2015, he has proven to be a consistent contributor. Marte is also versatile, on defense, recording innings at center field (1,292), shortstop (2,282) and second base (6,083.2).
However, acquiring Marte would entail a significant financial commitment for the Blue Jays. He is under contract through the 2031 season as part of a six-year, $116.5 million contract. With a struggling offense, though, the two-time Silver Slugger could provide a boost the unit desperately needs.
