Who’s All In on R.A. Dickey?

Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

R.A. Dickey could be on the move and suitors are lining up to get a taste of the 2012 NL Cy Young award winner.

According to multiple sources, the Toronto Blue Jays are rumored to be the frontrunners in nabbing the 38-year-old knuckleballer. And the deal could be pulled off as soon as this weekend.

The news of Dickey becoming a trade chip recently sprung to light after the negotiations with the Mets organization on an extension have stalled in the last week. Dickey is currently under contract for next season at a cheap $5 million and is asking for a two-year extension in the realm of $26 to $28 million per season.

“In the context of the market, you want what you think is fair,” Dickey said. “I feel like we’re asking for less than what’s fair because that’s how it’s been for me. There is a surprise sometimes when things don’t get done quickly and you already think you’re extending the olive branch. At the same time, they have a budget they have to adhere to. I don’t konw those numbers. And I try not to take it personally.”

If the Blue Jays were to win the Dickey lottery, the trade could involve outfielder Anthony Gose and catcher J.P. Arencibia. Another source reported that Toronto could very well give up their top prospect in catcher Travis d’Arnaud.

Meanwhile, Dickey would join a slew of young outfield talent to provide a good mix of youth and veteran leadership to make Toronto a contender in the East. Though, there are some drawbacks with Dickey and his ability to pitch among AL batters. In fact, he’s struggled more with the Minnesota Twins, Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners than any other team in the league.

The other top suitor to make a bid for the veteran journeyman are the Los Angeles Angels, while the Texas Rangers have reportedly dropped out of the running.

Dickey ranked among the top NL pitchers in most categories, including innings pitched (233, first in league), strikeouts (230, first in league) and ERA (2.73, second in league). Through ten seasons, the knuckleballer has accrued a steady 3.96 ERA.