MLB trade rumors: San Diego Padres could bag $3 million Toronto Blue Jays star if Yu Darvish’s future remains unclear

The San Diego Padres are dealing with uncertainty in their rotation because of Yu Darvish’s situation. He is recovering from elbow surgery and will miss the entire 2026 season. At the same time, he is considering either retirement or stepping away from his current contract.If Darvish does not return, San Diego could free up salary and open a spot in the rotation. That has led to talk about a short-term replacement, with Max Scherzer seen as a possible option depending on how the season plays out.Yu Darvish, 39, underwent UCL surgery in November 2025. He has not made a final decision about his future. For now, his focus is on rehab and seeing if he can return at a competitive level.If he chooses to void his deal, the Padres could clear about $14-16 million per year. That would give them flexibility to add pitching behind Michael King, Nick Pivetta, and Joe Musgrove. Max Scherzer, 41, signed a one-year deal with Toronto Blue Jays worth $3 million, with incentives that could increase the total value. He was part of the Blue Jays team that made a deep run in 2025.He still brings experience and production, with three Cy Young Awards and more than 3,400 strikeouts. With Griffin Canning dealing with an Achilles injury and questions around depth, Scherzer could fit as a back-end starter if needed.A deal would likely happen closer to the trade deadline. If Toronto Blue Jays is not in contention, it could move Scherzer.San Diego Padres could offer bullpen help such as Jason Adam or Jeremiah Estrada, along with a mid-level prospect. Scherzer would likely slot into the rotation behind King, Pivetta, and Musgrove, alongside Randy Vasquez and JP Sears.San Diego Padres would add a veteran arm for a playoff push. Toronto would strengthen its bullpen and add depth. Scherzer would move to a team in contention.Max Scherzer could help younger pitchers and still miss bats. At the same time, there are concerns about durability, recent workload, and cost if incentives are reached.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers could bring back $5.2 million veteran to strengthen late innings in 2026For the Padres, this would be a short-term move to stabilize the rotation without a long commitment. Toronto would get bullpen help if it decides to sell. For Scherzer, it would be another chance to pitch for a team in the playoff race.