With the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline approaching, theScore's MLB editors explore fictitious trade scenarios that, in all likelihood, won't happen. But it sure would be cool if they did.

The Toronto Blue Jays have a realistic shot at ending their 22-year postseason drought, but they'll be hard-pressed to play in October without improving their pitching staff. Armed with the best offense in baseball, an inconsistent rotation and mediocre bullpen has them sitting on the outside looking in, but there could be help on the West Coast.

Proposed Trade

Blue Jays acquire: SP James Shields, OF Justin Upton, RP Joaquin Benoit, IF Clint Barmes

Padres acquire: SS Jose Reyes, SP Daniel Norris, OF Dalton Pompey, RP Ryan Tepera

Why the Blue Jays should do it

With more than two months left in the season, the Blue Jays sit within striking distance of both the division and wild card. Their window is closing quickly, however, with Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion hitting free agency at the end of next season. A big splash isn't just a want - it's a necessity. Acquiring James Shields gives the Blue Jays a legitimate No. 1 who's familiar with the AL East and under team control through the 2018 season. Shields has a guaranteed $63 million remaining on his deal after this season, though moving Jose Reyes equals out Shields' contract for the first two years. Joaquin Benoit is one of the more unappreciated relievers in baseball and could slide into the closer's role if needed, while his team-friendly $8-million option allows the Blue Jays to bring him back in 2016. Justin Upton, an impending free agent, would replace defensive liability Chris Colabello in left, and his bat would make a dominant offense that much more terrifying. Devon Travis could take on the leadoff role with Reyes' departure while Ryan Goins, a far superior defender, could handle duties at shortstop with Clint Barmes.

Why the Padres should do it

San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller's first crack at molding the roster failed. However, parting ways with Shields, Upton, Benoit, and Barmes would give the rookie executive a shot at adding young, controllable players ready for the major-league level in Daniel Norris and Dalton Pompey. Norris would slot into the rotation behind Tyson Ross and Andrew Cashner, while Pompey slides into center field, pushing Wil Myers to his more comfortable spot in right. The Padres are desperate for help on the left side of the infield and Reyes fills that need. The 32-year-old is owed $44 million over the next two seasons - similar money to what the Padres are paying Shields, but Reyes would save them approximately $20 million in the long run. San Diego could use that money to address other areas over the winter. Though his defense has declined, Reyes is still one of the top offensive shortstops in the majors, and would give the Padres the leadoff hitter they've been searching for.

Why it won't happen

With the Blue Jays sitting 5 1/2 games back in the division, Alex Anthopoulos might not want to sell the farm for a chance to get bounced in the wild-card game, like the Oakland Athletics a season ago. It's also unlikely that ownership would make the extra cash available needed to complete the transaction. The Jays more likely have their sights set on adding a starter to the back end of the rotation rather than making a major splash.