BLUE JAYS DEAL TWO FOR PITCHER ROGERS
The Toronto Blue Jays acquired pitcher Esmil Rogers from the Cleveland Indians for infielder Mike Aviles and infielder/catcher Yan Gomes.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays aren't shy about collecting relievers, so they've gone in that direction once more here with the arrival of Rogers. He's a hard-throwing righty with some control issues (but with significant upside). He failed as a starter, however, so the Jays are unlikely to try him in the rotation again. In dealing both Aviles and Gomes, Toronto has lost a lot of versatility and some roster flexibility in the process.
What does it give the Cleveland Guardians
The Indians could use Aviles as a platoon third or second baseman, as well as backup insurance for shortstop {P Asdrubal Cabrera}. Gomes may win a job out of spring training as Cleveland's No. 3 catcher and a utility infielder, which would allow regular catcher {P Carlos Santana} to see more time at first base or DH. The Indians gave up on Rogers, despite the fact he has great stuff.
Fantasy impact
Rogers should become a decent source for holds as a setup man in Toronto, so his fantasy value is on the way up. Aviles is not likely to play every day anymore, so his value continues to dip. As for Gomes, he'll continue to be a utility man (and not much more) despite a change of scenery.
