Blue Jays “Open To” Alek Manoah Trade Offers

After securing a strong third-place finish in the AL Cy Young voting in 2022, Alek Manoah endured a tumultuous 2023 season. His performance suffered, resulting in a disappointing 5.87 ERA over 87 1/3 innings due to a significant loss of control. To address this sudden decline, Manoah spent a month in the Florida Complex League attempting to resolve his mechanical issues. Despite later being optioned to Triple-A Buffalo in August, Manoah did not make any pitching appearances with the Bisons.

Rival executives have revealed to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal that the Blue Jays are considering trading Manoah, and have received inquiries about their rotation depth in general. While the team is open to listening to offers, it remains unclear if they are actively shopping Manoah or simply evaluating their options.

Manoah’s trade potential remains uncertain due to the mysterious nature of his down year. There are indications of injury, with Jays GM Ross Atkins sharing that Manoah received a PRP injection for shoulder discomfort. Reports also suggested tension between Manoah and the team regarding the minor league option’s impact on his service time for Super Two status. The true extent of Manoah’s current status will likely become clearer after the offseason or Spring Training as he works to regain his form.

While Manoah’s trade value may be limited due to the lack of understanding about his current struggles, a healthy return to form remains a possibility. The Blue Jays are keen on benefiting from any potential resurgence, but are also cautious about selling low on Manoah. Despite his rough season, there is hope that he can rediscover his form under a new team, challenging the notion that his trade value has bottomed out entirely.

Speculation has emerged about a potential trade with the Cardinals, involving names like Dylan Carlson, Lars Nootbaar, or Brendan Donovan. Both teams could capitalize on a mutual exchange of struggling players, hoping for a change of scenery to reignite their careers. Should Manoah become available, several clubs could be fits, as the Jays are looking to fill gaps in their lineup.

The potential repercussions of a Manoah trade on Toronto’s rotation are also worth considering. While the top four spots seem secure, Manoah’s role as the fifth starter is uncertain. This uncertainty prompts questions about other available pitchers like Bowden Francis, Mitch White, Wes Parsons, and even Yusei Kikuchi. Exploring another pitcher trade suggests that the Jays are either confident in Manoah’s potential rebound, or they are seeking added stability in their pitching staff.