Ex-D-back’s World Series Role Highlights 2022 Trade Impact
The World Series is underway, featuring the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers in a thrilling 2025 matchup. Meanwhile, the Arizona Diamondbacks are absent from the postseason for the second consecutive year. A notable name connected to the D-backs is outfielder Daulton Varsho, who was traded to the Blue Jays ahead of the 2023 season.
Trade Dynamics: D-backs and Blue Jays Benefit
Varsho’s trade saw the D-backs acquire Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Gabriel Moreno. Both players have made significant impacts for Arizona since the deal. While Varsho is thriving in the postseason, his trade has elicited mixed feelings among D-backs fans.
Varsho’s Impact with the Blue Jays
In the 2025 MLB season, Varsho started in center field for the first World Series appearance for Toronto since 1993. Despite a shoulder injury that limited his play early in the season, Varsho contributed effectively. He achieved the following statistics:
- 2.8 WAR in 71 games
- Batting average of .238
- Slugging percentage of .548
- 20 home runs and 13 doubles
- OPS of .832
His postseason performance has also been notable, hitting .273 with two home runs and four doubles. Varsho’s defensive skills shone through as he received a Gold Glove in 2024 and displayed impressive metrics, such as:
- +10 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS)
- +8 Outs Above Average (OAA)
- +6 Fielding Run Value
Diamondbacks’ Gains from the Trade
On the flip side, the D-backs have seen positive contributions from both Gurriel and Moreno. Gurriel played well in 2025 with:
- 19 home runs
- 80 RBIs
- OPS+ of 103
- 5.3 WAR, earning an All-Star selection in 2023
Currently, Gurriel is sidelined with a torn ACL but had previously approached a franchise record in RBIs within a month. Moreno, though facing injuries, remains a promising player at just 25 years old. He boasts a solid .285 average in 2025, paired with a Gold Glove award in 2023.
Conclusion
The trade involving Daulton Varsho has proven beneficial for both the D-backs and the Blue Jays. While Varsho aims for a championship with Toronto, the contributions of Gurriel and Moreno have solidified Arizona’s line-up. Both teams have navigated the trade’s aftermath effectively, making it a noteworthy chapter in their respective histories.
