PT TOMORROW: AL East—Bautista, Britton could be deadline-deal fodder

Toronto Blue Jays

The extension of the relationship between José Bautista (OF, TOR) and the Blue Jays has not gone as planned for either side.

At this point—with Bautista’s contact rate continuing its three-year slide and the bat-flipper extraordinaire having fewer opportunities to demonstrate that skill, thanks to a PX that has slipped back near league average—it would seem doubtful that Toronto will exercise its end of the $17 million mutual option on Bautista’s services for 2018.

Instead, if Toronto can find a taker (who perhaps agrees to pick up some of his salary), Bautista’s parting gift may be a trade to a contender looking for a right-handed outfielder with playoff experience.

If Bautista is sent elsewhere, Toronto would likely...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we take some time to check in on previous PT Tomorrow darlings whom we're no longer excited about while giving some playing time updates in San Diego and Arizona.
Jul 11 2026 3:06am
Lara should play; where will that playing time come from?
Jul 10 2026 3:05am
In a surprising development, Austin Hedges suddenly has positive fantasy value. Plus, Murakami's return in CHW, another Max prospect in DET, more bullpen issues for KC, and Woo-Suk Go intrigue in MIN.
Jul 9 2026 3:06am
With Brent Rooker out for the season, Carlos Cortes could be back in the playing time mix in Sacramento.
Jul 8 2026 3:05am
Chandler Simpson's wheels were slowed during the speedster's lengthy stolen base drought, but he's now showing signs of breaking past his slump and helping his case to stick in Tampa Bay's lineup. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Jul 7 2026 3:05am

Tools