MLB Rumors: Jays Trade of Grichuk Re-Ignites Conforto Rumors

The Toronto Blue Jays have made another shrewd move setting up their 2022 roster, shipping out Randal Grichuk and his $10.3M salary, while bringing in Colorado Rockies outfielder Raimel Tapia, who offers the Jays plenty of different looks for their lineup. 

Tapia can provide speed on defense and on the basepaths, can put the ball in play, is a rare left-handed bat in the Toronto lineup, and serves as a fine defensive replacement when needed in the outfield.

But the other main thing Tapia provides is a savings of close to $7M, freeing up a bit more salary wiggle room for the Toronto front office to make an even bolder attempt at bringing in the impact left-handed bat they so desire, Michael Conforto.

Conforto the last prominent free agent

The former New York Mets outfielder is the last prominent free agent standing, and some of his previous potential suitors have fallen by wayside in recent days; the Cincinnati Reds signed Tommy Pham; the Colorado Rockies signed Kris Bryant and have now brought in Randal Grichuck, both of whom provide all the added power their outfield needs; and the San Diego Padres brought in Luke Voit as their new power bat. 

That leaves the Blue Jays with an opening. And some extra cash. 

Blue Jays clearing $ space for Conforto??? 👀 pic.twitter.com/WUBb5AXvKf

— Side Retired Pod (@SideRetiredPod) March 24, 2022

Watch the Jays sign Michael Conforto now. https://t.co/ZV7SSRV9YZ

— Matt Williams (@MattWi77iams) March 24, 2022

Conforto, as we reported last week, is said to have turned down a 5-year, $100M offer from the Mets a year ago, but it seems unlikely that his price point would be quite that high at this point, following a poor 2021 season, and the fact that so many of his suitors are likely out of the picture. 

It's shaping up to be an interesting week or two before Opening Day.  

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports