Toronto Blue Jays Trade Acquisition Dominates Former Team in Spring Performance

Jake Bloss, acquired during last season’s trade deadline in exchange for Yusei Kikuchi, dominated the Houston Astros in a strong performance on Monday afternoon.

The Blue Jays triumphed 8-3 over the Astros in Grapefruit League action, thanks to a seven-run outburst in their final three at-bats. However, it was Bloss’ pitching that also stood out.

Bloss threw three scoreless innings, recording five strikeouts. Ranked as the No. 6 prospect in the Blue Jays’ system by MLB Pipeline, Bloss was part of the trade that sent Kikuchi to Houston. The 23-year-old, selected by the Astros in the third round of the 2023 draft from Georgetown, made his MLB debut last season with Houston, posting a 0-1 record and a 6.94 ERA, with 11 strikeouts over 11.2 innings. In the minors, he went 4-6 with a 3.18 ERA across 21 starts.

Bloss isn’t expected to be part of the Jays’ starting rotation this season due to the team’s established group, which includes Jose Berrios, Max Scherzer, Bowden Francis, Kevin Gausman, and Chris Bassitt. Yariel Rodriguez is also in the rotation mix, though Bloss is not far behind.

According to his MLB.com prospect profile, Bloss is ready for a spot in many major league rotations, and he could join the Blue Jays in 2025, either due to injuries or his own performance. He’s expected to become a key piece for the team in the coming seasons as the Jays’ veteran starters potentially move on.