Done Deal: Toronto Blue Jays, Pittsburgh Pirates Complete Trade

The Toronto Blue Jays have continued their busy winter, adding a 6'7" right-hander to their 5th-starter mix in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

OFFICIAL: We've acquired RHP Zach Thompson from the Pirates in exchange for OF Chavez Young.

To make room, RHP Junior Fernández has been designated for assignment. pic.twitter.com/j8k5X44cXo

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) January 10, 2023

Zach Thompson has two years in the majors, and Toronto hopes he can compete for the 5th starter role, or as another depth piece on the pitching staff.

In return, the Jays send 25-year-old minor league outfielder Chavez Young to the Pirates.

Thompson, now 29, was designated for assignment by the Pirates last week, after posting an ugly 5.18 ERA in 22 starts and 121.2 innings last year, with a 1.51 WHIP.

Those numbers won't knock your socks off, but in his rookie season, 2021, with the Miami Marlins, he posted some very nice stats as a starter. In 14 games, he had a 3.25 ERA with a 1.15 WHIP and a 55:22 K/BB ratio. He also relieved 12 times and finished that season with an overall 3.24 ERA.

The Jays are hoping he can return to that type of performance.

Photo: Gerry Angus-USA TODAY Sports