We are a few days from the August 1st deadline, and rumors are still a buzz about many players. One of the players who seems to be linked to multiple teams is Cincinnati Reds Outfielder Jay Bruce. As of July 29th, the more likely destination for the OF is the Los Angles Dodgers. It is seen that the Los Angles Dodgers are likely to be the favorites.
The Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles are two other teams that are being rumored to have some interest in Jay Bruce, but it seems those teams are more focused on pitching. The Orioles are more interested in a starter, and the Nationals are in need of a closer after the recent implosion of closer Jonathan Papelbon. The New York Mets and the Seattle Mariners are also being recently rumored to Jay Bruce. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale has heard there are two “mystery teams” that are driving the market with bids.
Jay Bruce has been on the trading block for over a year now, however now that he is performing greatly this year, it is expected that he is to be triggering more interest. In 2016, Jay Bruce has 25 Home Runs and 79 RBIs, plus he has a .895 OPS. All three of those offensive categories are putting him to be on pace to have career years.
While he has dipped down in defense, the Los Angeles Dodgers seem to believe the positives will outweigh the negatives. He is also known to have a great influence within the clubhouse, which adds to teams having an interest in his services. Earlier this evening, Jeff Passan tweeted through his official Twitter account, “ Sources: Dodgers, Reds discussed a deal centered around Jay Bruce and Yasiel Puig. Didn’t materialize. Still plenty of permutations possible.” The Dodgers have an interest in Josh Reddick as well, but Jay Bruce is the focus.