Teoscar Hernández is traded to the Seattle Mariners

The Mariners turned around the first blockbuster trade of the offseason, acquiring All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernandez from the Blue Jays on Wednesday. Toronto received right-handed reliever Erik Swanson and left-handed pitching prospect Adam Mackoa in exchange.

Heading into his age-30 season, Hernandez is in check for one more season before being eligible for free agency.

The right-handed hitter won two consecutive Silver Slugger Awards in 2020-21 and has slashed .283/.333/.519 (132OPS+) over the past three seasons, averaging 36 home runs and 114 RBIs over 162 games in that span.

Hernández could effectively replace free agent Mitch Haniger in right field for the Mariners, whose outfield options also include 2022 AL Rookie of the Year Julio Rodríguez, veteran Jesse Winker, 2020 AL Rookie of the Year Kyle Lewis , former prospects Jarred Kelenic and Taylor Trammell, as well as Sam Haggerty and Dylan Moore.

Swanson, 29, was a linchpin in Seattle’s dominant bullpen last season, posting a 1.68 ERA with 70 strikeouts and just 10 walks in 53 2/3 innings. He will join a strong contingent of right-handers in Toronto’s bullpen, joining Jordan Romano, Yimi Garcia, Anthony Bass and Adam Cimber.

The Blue Jays are also receiving Macko, who was Seattle’s No. 8 prospect. The 21-year-old lefty has averaged 14K per nine innings in three minor league seasons. He reached High-A level in 2022.