The Reds are in full-on rebuild mode while the Blue Jays are the defending AL East champions. Thus, it isn't too surprising that there are talks to send former All-Star Jay Bruce to Toronto in a trade.
Multiple outlets report the Jays are trying to deal for Bruce. The latest from Jon Heyman says there's a possibility that it's a three-way deal that would send Bruce to the Blue Jays, Michael Sauders to the Angels and a prospect or two to the Reds.
Bruce, 28, is a two-time All-Star and finished exactly 10th in MVP voting two straight years. In the last two years, however, he's taken a huge step back. He hit .217/.281/.373 in a dreadful 2014 season. He did get a bit better last year, but still slashed .226/.294/.434 with 35 doubles and 26 homers.
If dealt to the Blue Jays, Bruce would shift across the outfield to left. His power would play pretty well down in the order, as he'd likely hit seventh.
As far as the Angels' inclusion and if they grab Saunders, it's worth a shot. Right now they appear set to use some combination of Daniel Nava, Todd Cunningham and Craig Gentry in left field.
Bruce does have a no-trade list, but the Jays aren't included.
Bruce is set to make $12.5 million this season before having a $13 million club option for 2017.