The Toronto Blue Jays enter Monday's trade deadline day at 52-60 and in last place in the American League East. However, because of the mediocrity of the American League, they are just 4.5 games back of the third and final wild card spot.

Despite the relative proximity to a playoff spot, the assumption was that the Blue Jays would be motivated sellers at the trade deadline, and that seemed to be confirmed on Sunday night when they dealt Kevin Gausman to the Chicago Cubs for two prospects.

However, Toronto threw a wrench in the plans on Monday by acquiring Jose Soriano from the Los Angeles Angels. That deal certainly has "future help" implications, but it also helps the Jays stay relevant in the now, as does the move they made on Monday afternoon to acquire utility player Josh Smith from the Texas Rangers. Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News had that information on social media, indicating that the Blue Jays are sending Adam Macko back to Texas.

Ken Rosenthal of 'The Athletic' notes that the Jays are also getting prospect Josh Stephan in return.

Here's what you need to know:

A 28-year-old left-handed hitter, Smith is in his fifth year in the big leagues. He was a near-everyday player for Texas in 2024 and 2025, but has slumped this year, hitting just .213 in 45 games. He's spent time in the minor leagues, and he has only one big league homer this season.

He's a career .234 hitter with a .325 on-base percentage, and he hit a career-high 13 homers in 2024.

He has the ability to play all over the diamond, having appeared in games at third base, shortstop, left field, second base, shortstop, first base, right field and centerfield in his career. He's played most often at third base and shortstop and should give the Jays options.

He's under contract through 2028.

Well, as of now, there's no clear-cut path to playing time for Smith. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is at first, with Kazuma Okamoto at third and Ernie Clement and Andres Gimenez in the middle.

Is Smith going to used as a bench player? Or, are the Jays thinking of using him as a fill-in because another trade is coming? Both George Springer and Daulton Varsho are free agents at the end of the year and are possible trade chips. If one or both of them are gone, there could be more chances for Smith to see immediate action right away.

Originally acquired from the Seattle Mariners before the 2023 season, he went 2-0 with a 4.91 ERA in 22 games for Toronto.