As the trade deadline concluded with a flurry of last-minute deals, the Blue Jays have reportedly acquired Whit Merrifield from the Royals, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.
Kansas City will receive minor league infielder Samad Taylor and right-handed pitcher Max Castillo in exchange.
Merrifield, 33, is a two-time All-Star who’s spent his entire career with the Royals. His offense has regressed a bit this year, as he’s batting .240/.290/.352 with six home runs and 15 stolen bases through 95 games, but he posted a 107 OPS+ in the five seasons prior. He led the league in doubles (42) and stolen bases (40) in 2021.