The Houston Astros are nearing a deal for left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, sending right-hander Jake Bloss to the Toronto Blue Jays, according to Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of The Athletic. Kikuchi is in the final year of a three-year, $36 million contract he signed with the Blue Jays through the 2022 season. He will receive $10 million before becoming a free agent this offseason.

Kikuchi, 33, had his fair share of highs and lows with the Blue Jays, losing a spot in the rotation in 2022. He’s since become a strong starter, starting a league-leading 22 games this season.

More to come.

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