MLB Hot Stove: Cardinals get Jason Heyward in trade, Blue Jays sign Russell Martin

The baseball hot stove was piping hot today, with two big moves. The Toronto Blue Jays made a questionable movie, signing catcher Russell Martin to a five-year deal. Then, the St. Louis Cardinals got young Atlanta Braves right fielder Jason Heyward in a trade.

Just a few hours ago, Peter Gammons broke the news about Martin’s signing, writing that he got “McCann money,” in reference to last year’s big free agent catcher signing, in which Brian McCann went to the New York Yankees. Sources for the Toronto Star said that Martin’s five-year deal is worth $82 million.

That’s a big number for a guy who is already 31. He just turned down a one-year $15.3 million offer from the Pittsburgh Pirates, so holding out for the big bucks worked out for him. The Jays will also have to spend money to re-sign Melky Cabrera, which is how most expected the team to spend money this offseason.

The other big move of the day came in the National League, with the Cardinals and Braves swapping players. According to MLB.com, the Braves received right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller and minor league pitcher Tyrell Kenkins. The Cards got Heyward and reliever Jordan Walden.

Heyward, 25, is the major piece of the deal. He started his career off well in 2010 when he was 20, but was slowed down by an injury in 2011. He seemed to be getting back into form with a great 2012, but the last two seasons have been disappointing. He’s only hit 25 homers over the past two seasons. He had a .271 average in 2014.

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