Blue Jays: Interest in Jeremy Hellickson Won’t Come to Anything
By Paul Taylor
Despite the Toronto Blue Jays’ reported interest in Jeremy Hellickson, the veteran pitcher isn’t going to end up coming to Southern Ontario.
The Toronto Blue Jays‘ ongoing quest for pitching help has seen them linked to a variety of names, and referenced by other clubs as one of the more aggressive teams searching for – preferably – a starter. If nothing else, this tells us general manager Ross Atkins was true to his word, when he recently said they have been in contact with all 29 other franchises at some point.
Of course, all the speculation and conversations in the world won’t mean much, if the Blue Jays don’t actually find someone who can help them. Which brings us to one of the myriad of pitchers they have been linked with – Jeremy Hellickson.
A few media folks have referenced Hellickson, but the one who we’re intrigued by – and respect most – is Jayson Stark. The entertaining ESPN senior writer believes the 29-year is worth keeping an eye on.
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In addition, Stark makes mention of Hellickson’s ability to provide reliable innings. However, is he really what the Blue Jays are looking for?
Of course, in an ideal world, the answer is no. However, with no David Price to trade for this year, combined with the lack of quality options, Ross Atkins has to spend more time considering what is available.
In respect of Hellickson, Blue Jays fans will be familiar with him, from his time with the Rays, between 2010-14. The highlight of his tenure there was 2011, when he was named American League Rookie of the Year.
In truth, the 2005 fourth round draft pick’s form has dipped in recent seasons. However, the 2016 campaign has provided somewhat of a renaissance for him.
Among the highlights of this year for Hellickson is his ERA of 3.70 which, at this rate, will be his best since 2012. Additionally, he is on course for his lowest WHIP since his first year in the Majors, when he only appeared in 10 games.
With a salary of $7 million for this season, the Blue Jays would be on the hook for around $2.30 million. He will become a free agent in the winter, so the Des Moines, Iowa native would effectively be a short-term rental.
When contemplating the possibility, you have to also wonder how Hellickson would do, pitching regularly in the hitter-friendly confines of the SkyDome. Fortunately, we do have some idea – albeit limited – from his time in Tampa.
In all, the 2012 Gold Glove winner has made nine starts in Toronto, with the Rays going 3-6. In those nine appearances, he recorded a 3.55 ERA, while averaging six innings and five hits per game.
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Another aspect to consider, is Hellickson’s ongoing issue with a blister. Throw in the fact, he left Saturday’s start with a bruised hand and – no matter how much he says he is fine – it has to be taken into consideration.
Overall, as you’d expect, there are some positives, some negatives and a lot of uncertainty surrounding “Hellboy”. However, the defining factor could be what the Philadelphia Phillies want in return, even though Stark says the Blue Jays can probably afford it.
Given that Stark has been advised the asking prices is “one of your top five prospects”, is Hellickson really worth it, especially with his contract expiring at the conclusion of the season? Ultimately, when it comes down to crunch time, he won’t end up in Southern Ontario.
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What’s your take on Hellickson? Do you believe he’s worth trading for, or should the Blue Jays look elsewhere? Let us know in the comments section below.