The Pittsburgh Pirates may consider trading catcher Joey Bart this season to create space for a veteran presence, while the Toronto Blue Jays are exploring options to strengthen their starting rotation, including a potential reunion with Max Scherzer. These moves reflect ongoing MLB trade rumors update dynamics as teams adjust rosters ahead of the new campaign.
Blue Jays Show Interest in Bringing Back Max Scherzer
The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off a World Series appearance last year, remain active in reinforcing their pitching staff. They have already re-signed Shane Bieber on a qualifying offer and added free agents Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce to their roster. Now, the Blue Jays are reportedly pursuing a reunion with Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner.
MLB Network insider Jon Heyman mentioned there is “some interest” from the Blue Jays regarding Scherzer’s return, though he points out that signing free agent Framber Valdez might offer a more immediate boost to the rotation than Scherzer would. During the World Series last year, Scherzer started Game 7 for Toronto against the Los Angeles Dodgers and departed while the Blue Jays held the lead.
Max Scherzer appears willing to delay signing even past Opening Day as he evaluates opportunities to join a team where he can conclude his career on a strong note.
Pirates Considering Trade Options for Joey Bart
According to Jason Mackey of Pirates Insider, trading Joey Bart is a likely scenario for the Pittsburgh Pirates this season. Bart’s role has shifted more toward a platoon or backup position against left-handed pitchers rather than being the regular catcher moving forward.
The Pirates’ depth at the catcher position is significant, with talents like Henry Davis, Endy Rodríguez, Easton Carmichael, and other prospects all competing for playing time. This situation makes Bart a candidate for trade, especially as the organization looks to open a roster spot that could allow longtime player Andrew McCutchen to potentially return for a final season.
Bart, who remains arbitration-eligible and under team control, experienced a downturn last year, hitting .249 with four home runs across 93 games. Though the Pirates have agreed on a one-year deal with him avoiding arbitration, discussions about his trade value remain on the table.
Team Strategies Reflect Ongoing Roster Adjustments
Both the Blue Jays and the Pirates demonstrate how franchises continually assess talent and roster flexibility to meet their competitive goals. Toronto’s willingness to revisit Scherzer’s fit aims to balance veteran experience with newly acquired pitching talent, while Pittsburgh’s potential trade of Bart signals a focus on leveraging emerging catchers and roster slots.
These developments are part of broader MLB trade rumors update activity this offseason and early season period, as clubs position themselves for better performances. The Blue Jays’ quest to strengthen their starting rotation suggests their intention to maintain World Series contention, while the Pirates’ moves align with managing promising prospects alongside veteran leadership.
Looking ahead, it remains to be seen if Scherzer and Bart will change teams soon, but both players are central figures in shaping their clubs’ plans for the upcoming season in Major League Baseball.
“some interest” – Jon Heyman, MLB Insider
Pirates insider Jason Mackey:
"I fully expect them to trade Joey Bart at some point."
This would free up a spot for Andrew McCutchen, who Jason thinks WILL ultimately play one final year with the #Pirates this year.
— Austin Bechtold (@AustinRBechtold) February 5, 2026
