Former Rays top prospect rejoins AL East in latest trade

The Blue Jays executed a trade with the Astros that exchanged two outfielders of different playing styles. One of them has a contact focus on offense with plus defense, while the other one is more apt for a power approach with less substantial defensive skills. The latter was formerly a member of the Rays organization and will make his return to the American League East.

Blue Jays trade OF Joey Loperfido for Astros OF Jesus Sanchez

The Jays have traded contact and defense for power in this one-to-one deal. It's not surprising that they sought after another hard-hitting outfielder after the unfortunate news of Anthony Santander's injury. The Venezuelan slugger will miss 5-6 months due to left labral surgery. Therefore, the acquisition of Sanchez may be beneficial in the power department.

The Rays originally signed Jesus Sanchez as a 17-year-old Dominican youth. His rise to the major leagues was rather swift as the young prospect displayed impressive power for his age. In fact, at the of 19, Sanchez crushed 15 home runs and drove in 82 teammates for Single-A Bowling Green.

However, the 6'4 outfielder never reached the major league ranks in the Rays organization as he was dealt to the Marlins for successful closer Nick Anderson and Trevor Richards. The young phenom would make his debut in Miami during the shortened 2020 campaign. He put up a very poor showing in 25 at-bats, recording just one hit and striking out 11 times. Regardless, the Marlins brought him back for a more reasonable opportunity in 2021.

Sanchez began his breakout that season and has averaged about 14 homers per season since then. In 2024, the power-hitter destroyed the longest home run of the season as it traveled a ridiculous 480 feet through LoanDepot Park. A highlight is likely exactly what attracted the Blue Jays to complete this trade. After finishing the 2025 season with the Astros following a trade deadline deal, he will return to play in the AL East as a member of the Blue Jays. The Rays front office will need to wipe the dust off of their scouting reports from his early days.