Oakland A’s ship All-Star Matt Chapman to Toronto as sell-off continues, per reports

MESA, Ariz. — Matt Chapman knew he was likely to be traded as part of the A’s fire sale in the weeks ahead of Opening Day. On Wednesday, he finally was.

The two-time Platinum Glove-winning third baseman was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays, according to reports from former Major Leaguer Carlos Baerga and Jon Morosi of MLB.com.

It’s the third trade of a significant contributor already this week, following first baseman Matt Olson being sent to Atlanta on Monday and pitcher Chris Bassitt getting dealt to the New York Mets on Saturday. It likely won’t be the last, with rumors continuing to swirl around outfielder Ramon Laureano,

Chapman, 28 (but turning 29 in late April), had what he felt was an underwhelming 2021, batting .210 with 27 home runs and 72 RBI. But coming off of a hip surgery in late 2020, Chapman told reporters Sunday he’s feeling like he’s built his strength back up and feels ready to get back to his previous all-star worthy form.

“I know, when I’m healthy, what I’m capable of, and I’ve shown it before in this league,” Chapman said Sunday. “I think I want to return to what I was doing in ‘18, ‘19, but just a more experienced, healthier version of that. Because I think this is the healthiest I’ve ever felt.”

Given his age, combination of power and defense, and potential to return to his 2018-19 form, Chapman was one of the most intriguing trade candidates available. His contract status also is team-friendly. Chapman reportedly will earn $9.5 million this season and isn’t eligible for free agency until after the 2023 season.

The A’s took Chapman with the 25th overall pick in the 2014 draft out of Cal State Fullerton and, less than three seasons later, he was Oakland’s starting third baseman and almost instantly became a fan favorite. Much of that is because of his defense. Chapman has won a Gold Glove in each of his three full seasons in the majors, including last season, and is a two-time Platinum Glove winner, a fan vote determining the best defensive player in the league.

It’s also the second time an “Oakland firesale” has led to a third baseman trade to Toronto. Back in November 2014, the A’s sent Josh Donaldson to the Blue Jays for pitcher Kendall Graveman and Sean Nolin and infielders Brett Lawrie and Franklin Barreto. The season after that trade, Donaldson won the American League MVP, batting .297 with 41 homers and 123 RBI.

Toronto certainly wouldn’t mind a repeat of that from Chapman.