Thu, Nov 8, 2012 at 1:08pm

BLUE JAYS LAND HARD THROWER JEFFRESS

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired pitcher Jeremy Jeffress from the Kansas City Royals for cash.

What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
Jeffress has had a lot of issues off the field, and he's still quite raw and wild on the mound. That said, there's still quite a bit of upside here. He's still only 25 years old and owns a great fastball (and pretty good stuff overall). So, this is a good gamble for Toronto at this time. Jeffress has a chance to turn his career around here. He'll get a shot at earning a roster spot in spring training.

What does it give the Kansas City Royals
The Royals, like the Brewers before them, grew tired of Jeffress and his act. As a result, they moved him out for cash considerations. Perhaps they could have netted something else in return here, especially for a pitcher who throws very hard and was drafted in the first round in 2006. That said, his reputation reduced his value significantly, so KC took what they could get to deal him.

Fantasy impact
Jeffress still has time to make an impact in the American League (and in fantasy circles). Don't be surprised if he emerges as a setup man for Toronto in 2013. He has the arm to get the job done, but can he be trusted? Can he stay out of trouble off the field? Either way, he has definite sleeper appeal.

Player focus

Kansas City Royals

cash considerations

Toronto Blue Jays

Jeremy Jeffress P