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Blue Jays Poised for Aggressive Deadline Moves to Cement AL East Lead

General manager Ross Atkins plans to pursue frontline starters who can lead early postseason games, pairing them with relievers that can lock down late innings to turn Toronto’s first-half momentum into a deep playoff run.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 08: Former MLB players (L-R) Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz and Derek Jeter have a laugh during the television pre game show before a game between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Yankee Stadium on June 08, 2024 in New York City. The Dodgers defeated the Yankees 11-3.
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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JULY 10: Aroldis Chapman #44 of the Boston Red Sox high fives teammates after a 4-3 win against the Tampa Bay Raysc at Fenway Park on July 10, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Overview

  • Toronto enters the second half with a 55-41 record and a two-game lead in the American League East after setting a franchise mark with 54 wins before the All-Star break.
  • GM Ross Atkins is expected to capitalize on the July 31 trade deadline by targeting high-impact pitching additions to strengthen both the rotation and the bullpen.
  • League insiders warn the market for premium arms is thin, suggesting Toronto may need to outbid rivals for the limited pool of frontline starters and relievers.
  • Potential rotation targets like Joe Ryan, Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly are being evaluated for their ability to start the first three games of a playoff series.
  • Difference-making relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax top Toronto’s wishlist as the club seeks reliable late-inning stability for a postseason push.