By Canadian Press

Media Reports: All-star third baseman Matt Chapman traded to Blue Jays from Athletics

Mar 16, 2022 | 8:39 AM

DUNEDIN, Fla. — The Toronto Blue Jays have addressed their infield needs.

Matt Chapman was acquired by Toronto in a trade with the Oakland Athletics, according to several media reports.

Shortstop Kevin Smith, right-handed pitcher Gunnar Hoglund, left-handed starter Zach Logue and left-handed reliever Kirby Snead were sent to Oakland in exchange for the all-star third baseman.

The 29-year-old Chapman had a .210 batting average, 27 home runs for the Athletics last season while earning his third Golden Glove.

The reported move comes a day after Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said that adding a new position player was a priority.

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Atkins said he feels the Blue Jays have “closed the gap” in the competitive American League East but he’s always looking to make his club better.

“I think the most obvious way to do that is in our infield and complementing it somehow,” said Atkins.

Before the Chapman trade it was rumoured that the Blue Jays were pursuing free agents like Canadian first baseman Freddie Freeman and shortstop Carlos Correa.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 16, 2022.

The Canadian Press