Report: Blue Jays showing strong interest in Fowler
Dexter Fowler could find himself moving north of the border.
The Toronto Blue Jays are said to be showing a strong interest in the 30-year-old free-agent outfielder, sources told Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports.
On paper, the switch-hitting Fowler appears to suit a majority of the Blue Jays' needs, as the club finds itself in need of a leadoff hitter, as well as someone who can hit from the left side of the plate.
With Jose Bautista and Michael Saunders possibly headed elsewhere, Fowler would also help fill a significant hole in the Blue Jays' outfield, though it would cost the club a first-round draft pick after he declined a qualifying offer from the Chicago Cubs in November. Toronto is also reportedly linked to New York Mets outfielder Jay Bruce, who could be acquired via trade without having to forfeit a draft pick.
Related: Report: Blue Jays among teams pushing for Mets' Bruce
Heyman adds that if the Blue Jays were to pick up Fowler, they would likely shift him to the corners, leaving defensive stalwart Kevin Pillar to continue in center field. Fowler spent the entire 2015 manning center for the Chicago Cubs, though his chances of a Windy City return took a hit on Tuesday when they announced a one-year deal with outfielder Jon Jay.
Fowler is coming off one of his best offensive seasons in 2016, slashing .276/.393/.447 in 125 games, and helping the Cubs secure their first World Series win since 1908.
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