The Toronto Blue Jays are tied with the Detroit Tigers for the best record in the American League. With a win on Wednesday night, the Jays maintained their four-game lead over the New York Yankees in the AL East.
The trade deadline is today at 6 p.m. Eastern Time. Toronto came into today needing a starting pitcher to boost their rotation.
Sure, enough, Toronto added a top arm too their mix. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Blue Jays have acquired right-hander and former Cy Young Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians.
Morosi also revealed the return for the Guardians, and that this deal is a one-for-one.
"Toronto-Cleveland trade will be 1 for 1, source says," Morosi posted on X. "Shane Bieber for Khal Stephen."
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Bieber was injured early in the 2024 season and was shut down after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He has not pitched in 2025.
However, he is on a rehab assignment and has showed some promise. The 30-year-old veteran owns a 3.22 career ERA in seven seasons with the Guardians.
Stephen was ranked Toronto's No. 5 prospect prior to the trade. The 22-year-old right-hander was at Double-A New Hampshire prior to the trade. He was a second-round pick by the Blue Jays last year.
When Bieber returns from Tommy John surgery, he will instantly boost the Blue Jays rotation. They needed a frontline arm, and finally have landed one in a blockbuster deal.
We'll see what they have in store for future moves as deadline day progresses.
More MLB: Blue Jays showing interest in 2.35 ERA reliever to further bolster bullpen