Blue Jays Second-Half Storylines to Watch: What Will Surge Mean for Deadline?
As the MLB season rolls past the All-Star break, the Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a precarious but intriguing position. After a rocky start to 2025, the team has shown signs of life, stringing together much-needed wins in the final weeks of the first half. With momentum on their side, the second half presents several compelling storylines — and big questions — that could shape the trajectory of their season, especially with the trade deadline fast approaching.
Here’s a breakdown of the key storylines to watch for the Blue Jays in the second half of 2025:
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### 1. **Buyers or Sellers? The Trade Deadline Dilemma**
Toronto’s surge in late June and early July has pulled them closer to the AL Wild Card race, leaving front office executives with a crucial decision: **Should the Blue Jays be buyers, sellers, or stand pat at the deadline?**
Earlier in the season, the team looked destined to unload expiring contracts and reset for 2026. Now, with their stars heating up and young players contributing, a strong post-All-Star stretch could turn Toronto into buyers — or at least opportunistic retoolers.
Pending free agents like **Yusei Kikuchi** and **Danny Jansen** could become trade chips if the team cools off, but if the wins continue, don’t rule out a surprise move to bolster the bullpen or add a versatile bat.
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### 2. **Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Resurgence**
After a slow start to the year, **Vladimir Guerrero Jr.** has caught fire — and his bat could be the single biggest factor in Toronto’s playoff hopes. Guerrero has rediscovered his power stroke and patience at the plate, turning in a scorching July that’s silencing critics and reminding fans of his MVP-caliber potential.
If Vlad continues this trend into August, he could carry the offense and boost his long-term value heading into contract discussions this offseason. More immediately, his performance may tip the front office toward buying at the deadline if they believe he’s capable of leading a late-season charge.
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### 3. **Rotation Reinforcements: Can the Arms Hold Up?**
Toronto’s starting rotation has been a mixed bag. **Kevin Gausman** has struggled with inconsistency, **Alek Manoah** remains an unknown as he works back from injury, and **José Berríos** has been a stabilizing force, but he can’t do it alone.
If the Blue Jays plan to contend, they’ll need at least one more reliable starter. Whether that comes via trade or an internal promotion from the farm system (like **Ricky Tiedemann** or **Chad Dallas**), the front office will need to address the rotation’s durability and depth.
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### 4. **The Youth Movement**
The emergence of young talent has been one of the few bright spots for the Blue Jays this year. **Orelvis Martinez**, **Davis Schneider**, and **Addison Barger** have provided spark and versatility, and their continued development will play a major role in determining how aggressive Toronto gets at the deadline.
If the front office believes this young core is ready to contribute meaningfully, it could reduce pressure to make blockbuster moves — and potentially set the stage for a longer-term competitive window.
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### 5. **The Bo Bichette Factor**
**Bo Bichette** has had a quiet year offensively, but the second half offers a prime opportunity for him to bounce back. If Bichette rediscovers his form and becomes the steady offensive contributor the Blue Jays are used to seeing, it could completely change the complexion of the lineup.
Bichette’s future with the team will also be in the spotlight. With his contract status looming, the front office faces a delicate balance between maximizing his prime years and considering long-term roster planning.
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### 6. **Bullpen Consistency**
The bullpen has had its ups and downs this season. **Jordan Romano** has dealt with injuries, and the setup corps — including **Yimi García**, **Erik Swanson**, and **Chad Green** — have been effective at times, but vulnerable in high-leverage situations.
If the Blue Jays become buyers, expect them to target at least one proven late-inning reliever. In a tight AL Wild Card race, shoring up the bullpen could be the difference between playing meaningful October baseball or watching from home.
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### Final Thoughts: The Deadline Will Define the Direction
The next few weeks will be critical in determining the Blue Jays’ approach to the 2025 trade deadline. Continued momentum could compel them to make strategic additions in hopes of sneaking into the playoffs. On the other hand, any setbacks could reinforce a more conservative or seller-oriented stance.
Either way, the second half of the season promises intrigue, growth, and potential drama in Toronto. With stars heating up, young players emerging, and front office decisions looming, the Blue Jays will be one of the most closely watched teams heading into the trade deadline and beyond.
Whether this late surge becomes a springboard to October or just a fleeting moment of hope will soon be revealed.
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