Toronto also receives cash considerations. Upton is owed approximately $22 million through the end of next season. The Padres will cover all but $5 million of that, according to a report by Jon Heyman of MLB Network.
"We definitely like this lineup, there's no doubt about that," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said on Monday. "It's a good lineup. I don't know what you could do to improve it, to be honest with you. Maybe there is somebody, but it would have to be a big-impact guy, I would think."
Upton would appear to be more of a complementary piece rather than the "impact guy" Gibbons referred to on Monday. The 31-year-old has enjoyed a bit of resurgence this season with a .256 average, 16 home runs and 45 RBIs in 92 games.
What remains somewhat unclear, though, is how Upton will fit into Toronto's plans. The Blue Jays have a starting outfield of Michael Saunders, Kevin Pillar and Jose Bautista. One scenario could see Bautista receive more at-bats at designated hitter, but that would force Justin Smoak to the bench and force Edwin Encarnacion to play regularly at first base.
Encarnacion has struggled with leg and back issues in the past when he's played the field on an everyday basis. Smoak's slash line this year is .239/.336/.425 compared to Upton's .256/.304/.439, but it's worth noting Upton plays all of his home games at a pitcher-friendly park.
"We're certainly active," Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said while speaking in general terms Monday afternoon. "Our team's not an easy one to make better. Our team is balanced."
In addition, reports on Monday involved another Padre, right-hander Andrew Cashner, who is scheduled to pitch against Toronto on Tuesday. According to MLB Network's Jon Heyman, Toronto has been taking a close look at Cashner, but it would be for a role in the bullpen instead of the starting job he has held onto all year.
Cashner is in the midst of a disappointing season with San Diego. He is 4-7 with a 4.79 ERA and has experienced a slight drop in velocity, but the expectation is that his fastball would pick up some speed in short stints. Cashner also technically could provide some additional insurance in case Aaron Sanchez ends up in the bullpen because of an innings limit.
Cashner is just one of many potential fits for Toronto's bullpen. The list of available relievers that are rumored to be available is long and includes names such as Ryan Madson, Sean Doolittle, Fernando Abad, Will Smith, Jeremy Jeffress, Joe Smith and Jake McGee just to name a few.
"Everybody needs pitching," Gibbons said. "You can always use some reinforcements."
Fantasy spin | Fred Zinkie (@FredZinkieMLB)
One of two players -- along with Jose Altuve -- with at least 16 homers and 20 steals, Upton Jr. has provided immense surplus fantasy value this season. But even with that and his new home in a hitter-friendly lineup and venue, the outfielder could see his stock drop some because of this trade. The potential issue, in this case, will come down to lineup spot. If he leads off, the 31-year-old may be less apt to steal; if he hits lower in the order, his counting stats could take a small hit. Back in San Diego: Upton's departure could create a spot for Triple-A homer leader (25) Hunter Renfroe, who is worth stashing in all mixed leagues at this time.
Gregor Chisholm has covered the Blue Jays for MLB.com since 2011. Follow him on Twitter @gregorMLB and Facebook, and listen to his podcast. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Blue Jays deal with Padres for Upton Jr.
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