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Report: Blue Jays Targeting Two High-Leverage Orioles Relievers at Deadline

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The MLB Trade Deadline is inching closer, and the Toronto Blue Jays are in talks with the Baltimore Orioles to add some relievers. They are targeting Gregory Soto and Seranthony Domínguez, according to MLB insider Hector Gomez.

The Blue Jays’ bullpen ERA (3.53) has improved this season. They have surged from possible contenders to first place in the American League East, but boosting the bullpen would give them a heightened advantage. This season, Jeff Hoffman, Brendon Little, Yariel Rodriguez, and Chad Green have stood out in the pen. Soto has recorded a 3.67 ERA with 40 strikeouts across 34 1/3 innings pitched this season. Domínguez has also pitched well with a 3.72 ERA, two saves, and 51 strikeouts across 38 2/3 innings pitched.

Jun 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Gregory Soto (65) throws during the ninth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Report: Blue Jays Eyeing Two Orioles High-Leverage Relievers

Upsides of Soto

Soto’s upside lies in his strong left-handed arm and potential as a high-leverage reliever. This is evident with his ability to strike out batters and control the strike zone. He’s also shown the ability to perform in high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset in the bullpen. Soto has experience pitching in crucial moments, including closing games, which can be useful for the Blue Jays by adding a reliable late-inning arm. 

Soto throws a fastball in the upper 90s on a consistent basis, making him a difficult pitcher to square up. His ability to miss bats, especially with his fastball, translates to a high strikeout rate, making him a valuable weapon against opposing hitters. While he’s had some issues with walks in the past, he’s shown improvement in controlling the strike zone and limiting free passes. In addition, while he is often used as a reliever, Soto has shown the ability to pitch multiple innings. All of this would make him a flexible option in the bullpen for the Blue Jays. 
While he has faced some inconsistencies, Soto’s underlying skill and past performance suggest a high ceiling as a reliever. If he can maintain his velocity, improve his command, and continue to develop his secondary pitches, he could be seen as a dominant force in the bullpen for the Blue Jays. 

Upsides of Domínguez

Domínguez, like Soto, also has a high-velocity fastball. His secondary pitches are also promising, which highlights him as a potential high-leverage reliever as well as a late-inning option.  His career has been marked by injury woes and inconsistent command. But his positive attributes in the bullpen outweigh the concerns.
Domínguez possesses a fastball that can reach 99 mph with late movement. His slider has the potential to be an above-average pitch that limits offense. His ability to miss bats with his fastball and slider gives him a high strikeout rate, making him a valuable asset. Domínguez has shown the ability to take on high-pressure situations, contributing to his save and hold numbers.
Main Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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