Toronto Blue Jays couldn’t win either way with Roberto Osuna

It was a case of damned if you do, damned it you don’t, when it came to the Toronto Blue Jays deciding whether or not to move Roberto Osuna.

When a reported emerged on Monday, that the Toronto Blue Jays would never let Roberto Osuna pitch for them again in the Majors, the writing was on the wall. And yet, there was still some surprise when they actually traded him to the Houston Astros.

David Morassutti does an excellent job of breaking down the trade here. Whether you believe the Blue Jays got a good return or not, is open to debate.

Regardless, what became clear in the weeks following Osuna’s arrest for alleged assault, was that the team was in a no-win situation. No matter what they decided to do, they would receive criticism.

There was no doubting the 23-year-old’s talent whatsoever, as one of the best closer’s in the Majors. This was highlighted early in the 2018 season, when he became the youngest pitcher in MLB history to record 100 saves.

And yet, there was no getting away from Osuna’s off the field issues, even though we are still awaiting an outcome of the charges against him. What were the Blue Jays to do?

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For every person who believed someone’s personal issues have no relevance to what they do on their field, there was someone who argued it was a bad look for the team. In the end, the Blue Jays listened to the latter group and traded the 2017 All-Star.

In the process, the organization has now opened themselves up to more second-guessing. Those who wanted Osuna to stay, will stress the Blue Jays just got rid of one of their core young players who would help the team return to postseason contention.

Those same people will also argue the team didn’t get a good enough return for such a talent. Again though, this will be countered by those claiming they were lucky to get anything for the youngster, with numerous teams apparently not wanting to become embroiled in his messy situation.

This entire saga brings to mind when Lawrence Taylor was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A lot of people questioned if he should be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, after everything that happened to him away from the game.

This was countered by those who said the Pro Football Hall of Fame was about rewarding players for what they achieved on the field. Essentially, a person’s character should not be a part of the voting process.

Ultimately, baseball is perceived as more of a family sport than football, and this was probably a major factor in the Blue Jays’ decision regarding Osuna. In that respect, you can understand to some extent why they felt the pressure to part company with him.

However, if the team struggles to return to contention, you can guarantee there will be fans saying this is the price for getting rid of one of your top young talents. Pure and simple, it is a case of damned if you do, damned if you don’t.

Where do you stand on the Toronto Blue Jays’ decision to trade Osuna? Do you agree or disagree? Regardless, what is you opinion of the return haul they received for the closer? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.