Toronto Blue Jays’ pitcher Eric Lauer throws against the Los Angeles Dodgers (Image via AP Photo/Ashley Landis) The Toronto Blue Jays are expected to remain active as the 2026 season approaches. After failing to keep Bo Bichette in free agency and missing their chance to sign Kyle Tucker, the club appears focused on improving its pitching staff.One name linked to Toronto is St. Louis Cardinals left-handed reliever JoJo Romero. He is viewed as a realistic trade option and could fill a clear need in the Blue Jays bullpen while giving the Cardinals another piece for their rebuild.
Proposed Trade Could Center on Davis Schneider
No trade has been finalized, but several projections suggest a straight swap: Davis Schneider for Romero.Schneider, a right-handed outfielder, recorded a .797 OPS in 2025 and would add power to the Cardinals lineup. Romero, 29, posted a 2.07 ERA over 61 innings last season and would provide Toronto with a dependable left-handed reliever.Jojo Romero is entering the final year of his contract, which makes him easier to move for a team not expected to contend immediately. Schneider is under team control through 2029, giving St. Louis a longer-term option in the outfield.
Why the Deal Fits Both Teams
Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays already have a strong bullpen led by Jeff Hoffman and Tyler Rogers, but the group lacks balance from the left side. Romero would give the team another reliable matchup arm.With Bichette gone and Tucker no longer an option, strengthening the pitching staff may be the most direct way for Toronto to stay in the title race.
St. Louis Cardinals
Jojo Romero of St. Louis Cardinals (Image via Getty)
The Cardinals need right-handed hitting help in the outfield. The team has moved veterans such as Nolan Arenado and Willson Contreras and is adding younger players as part of its reset.Schneider offers power and positional flexibility, making him a practical addition while the organization develops prospects.
JoJo Romero
If traded to Toronto Blue Jays, Jojo Romero would likely pitch in higher-leverage spots for a contender. A larger role could help his value before he reaches free agency after the 2026 season.
Pros and Cons of the Trade
Pros for the Blue Jays: • Adds a proven left-handed reliever. • Manageable $4.26 million salary for 2026. • Strengthens a bullpen built for postseason games.Cons for the Blue Jays: • Schneider is a controllable hitter with power. • Romero is under contract for one year.Pros for the Cardinals: • Acquire a young outfielder under team control. • Move a reliever nearing free agency. • Add offense during a transition period.Cons for the Cardinals: • Lose a reliable bullpen arm. • Schneider’s defense may not be ideal.
Stat Tables and Demographics
PlayerAge2025 ERAInningsL/BBSavesContract Status JoJo Romero 29 2.07 61 1.9 8 1 year remaining Davis Schneider 27 .797 OPS 500+ 1.5 10 Through 2029
Who Benefits Most?
In the short term, the Toronto Blue Jays would improve their bullpen for the 2026 season. The St. Louis Cardinals would gain a controllable position player but give up a steady reliever.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers linked to $90 million San Francisco Giants Ace to bolster rotation; Roki Sasaki key trade asset?The deal addresses immediate needs for Toronto and supports St. Louis’ longer-term plans, making it reasonable for both sides.