Toronto Blue Jays Showing Trade Interest In Former Rookie Of The Year

The Toronto Blue Jays have shown a keen interest in Cincinnati Reds second baseman Jonathan India.

This interest is particularly fueled by the Blue Jays' need for reinforcements at the second base position.

Since his debut, India, the 2021 Rookie of the Year, has compiled a batting average of .246, an on-base percentage of .333, and a slugging percentage of .394, with 27 home runs over 960 plate appearances.

The #BlueJays have expressed interest in #Reds INF Jonathan India, per @elliottbaseball pic.twitter.com/k01YzRFocK
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 18, 2023

The trade rumors surrounding India have been persistent, despite efforts by the Reds' president of baseball operations, Nick Krall, to downplay them.

However, if a suitable offer presents itself, it's likely that Krall would consider it.

The recent signing of Jeimer Candelario by the Reds to a three-year, $45-million contract has further amplified the speculation about India's future with the team.

The Reds are contemplating moving India to the outfield due to their surplus of infielders and India's subpar defensive performance at second base in the past two seasons.

The #BlueJays are reportedly interested in trading for Jonathan India 👀

2023 STATS

BA: .244
OBP: .338
SLG: .407
OPS: .746

India certainly isn’t a game breaker, but he’s still a solid player and at age 27 has some upside

This could be a sneaky add depending on the price 👌 pic.twitter.com/hdpmi9YnX8
— Blue Jays Today (@TodayJays) December 18, 2023

The Blue Jays emerge as an intriguing potential destination for India.

Following their unsuccessful pursuit of Shohei Ohtani, Toronto is actively seeking to bolster their lineup this offseason.

Their interest in India aligns with this strategy, as they continue to be linked with other notable players like former NL MVP Cody Bellinger. Photo Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports