Report: Blue Jays have discussed trade for Mets' Bruce

The Toronto Blue Jays are being linked to a familiar name this winter as they attempt to shore up their outfield.

In need of two corner outfielders following the departures of Jose Bautista and Michael Saunders to free agency, the Blue Jays reportedly have some interest in trading with the New York Mets for slugger Jay Bruce.

"There was a lot of conversation last offseason about him - a deal almost happened," Jon Mososi of MLB Network told Sportsnet 590 The Fan on Monday, confirming an earlier report from Jim Bowden of ESPN.

"Bruce, you look at him, of course if the Mets were to move him, it might be so they could pursue an outfielder like Jose Bautista. There may be a certain circle here that goes on with why Jay Bruce is rather suddenly available once again with one year left on his deal. There is appeal in Jay Bruce, he maybe didn't love New York."

Bruce has garnered some affection from the Blue Jays' front office for some time. The 29-year-old appeared to be headed to Toronto in February before the deal broke down due to medical concerns surrounding one of the players involved in the deal. The two sides were also linked in July, as the Blue Jays were looking to add another left-handed bat.

The Mets exercised Bruce's $13-million option for next season, but could look to trade him, as he only has one more year remaining on his contract. They also have ambitions of trying to re-sign Yoenis Cespedes, and moving Bruce would free up some cash.

Bruce, an All-Star for a third time in 2016, hit .250/.309/.506 with 33 home runs, 27 doubles, and 99 RBIs in 147 games split between Cincinnati and New York last season.