Jake Casey, a standout outfielder from Kent State University, was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 15th round of the MLB Draft. Over the 2025 season, he showcased impressive offensive skills, batting .356 with a remarkable .500 on-base percentage. His power numbers were equally noteworthy, as he recorded 17 home runs and 55 RBIs, while also demonstrating speed with 20 stolen bases. Over his collegiate career, Casey maintained a solid .277 batting average, accumulating 41 home runs and 43 stolen bases across four seasons.

Casey's selection adds depth to the Blue Jays' outfield prospects, highlighting the team's commitment to infusing young talent into their roster. With potential for both power and speed, he could become a valuable asset for fantasy baseball enthusiasts looking for breakout candidates in the coming seasons.

Jim Clancy, a prominent figure in the Toronto Blue Jays' early history, has passed away at the age of 69. Clancy debuted during the team's expansive 1977 season and played a significant role in the rotation for over a decade. Selected in the expansion draft, he made an immediate impact despite a challenging start, recording a 4-9 record in his first season. Over subsequent years, he evolved into one of the core pitchers for the Jays, earning an All-Star selection in 1982 with a 16-14 record and a 3.71 ERA.

His tenure included two seasons as Toronto's opening-day starter and a pivotal role in the franchise's first division title in 1985. Clancy's career stats reflect his enduring talent: a 140-167 record with 1,422 strikeouts and a 4.23 ERA. After leaving the Blue Jays, Clancy spent time with the Houston Astros and finished his career with the Atlanta Braves, where he not only contributed in the regular season but also claimed a postseason victory. His legacy continues to resonate with fans and players alike.

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are focusing on bolstering their roster, particularly the bullpen. With current struggles from Jordan Romano and the suspension of Jose Alvarado for the postseason, the need for a reliable closer has become urgent. Phillies legend Jimmy Rollins emphasizes the importance of acquiring a closer who can consistently close out games. Rollins believes that the Phillies must pursue a reliever who can ensure victories when leading late in games.

Several potential targets have emerged in the trade market, including Emmanuel Clase from the Cleveland Guardians, who boasts a solid season despite not replicating his previous year's dominance. Another option is Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins, who has impressive strikeout numbers and a low ERA, making him an attractive choice. Other candidates include David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates and Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals. For Rollins and the Phillies, securing a dependable closer is crucial for a successful postseason run.

Jim Clancy, a pivotal figure in Toronto Blue Jays history, has passed away at 69. Clancy debuted in 1977 during the Blue Jays' inaugural season and spent 12 seasons with the franchise, establishing himself as a cornerstone of the pitching rotation alongside Dave Stieb. After struggling initially, he became an All-Star in 1982, finishing with a 16-14 record and a commendable 3.71 ERA. Clancy was the opening-day starter in both 1981 and 1984, contributing significantly to the team's development into a competitive squad.

In 1985, he played a crucial role in the Blue Jays' first division championship, posting a 9-6 record. Clancy's career concluded with the Atlanta Braves, where he achieved his first postseason victory in the World Series, despite the Braves falling to the Minnesota Twins. Over his career, he accumulated 140 wins, 167 losses, and 1,422 strikeouts, leaving behind a legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

Jim Clancy, a long-time pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, passed away at the age of 69. Clancy, who made his MLB debut in 1977, spent the majority of his career with the Blue Jays, where he became known for his impressive skills on the mound. In the 1982 season, he earned his only All-Star selection, posting a 3.71 ERA while leading the league with 40 starts. Despite his achievements, Clancy and the Blue Jays only made one postseason appearance together, which ended in a heart-wrenching seven-game loss to the Kansas City Royals in the 1985 ALCS. After leaving Toronto, Clancy played for the Houston Astros and briefly for the Atlanta Braves before retiring in 1991. He remains ranked second in several key statistical categories in Blue Jays history, including starts and complete games.