Blue Jays taking aim at top remaining free agents

The Toronto Blue Jays could have missed out on Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, however that doesn’t imply they’re performed purchasing on the high of the free-agent market.

In response to Jon Heyman of the New York Put up, the Blue Jays are “making some progress” of their discussions with outfielder Anthony Santander. Heyman additionally famous that the Blue Jays are eyeing first baseman Pete Alonso in addition to upgrades to the pitching workers.

Taking part in on the high of the free-agent market is nothing new for the Blue Jays. The issue is available in truly touchdown a type of gamers. Sasaki is simply the most recent of a collection of disappointments; the Blue Jays didn’t land outfielder Juan Soto and two-way star Shohei Ohtani. 

Santander can be an excellent match for the Blue Jays lineup. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is at present listed atop the depth chart at first base and designated hitter. Proper fielder George Springer had a disappointing 2024 and is 35 years outdated. Left fielder Joey Loperfido confirmed flashes of his potential however remains to be unproven in an on a regular basis function. Santander wouldn’t solely present one other highly effective bat within the lineup but additionally be an improve at proper or a risk because the Blue Jays DH.

Alonso is just not as simple of a match. He’s strictly a primary baseman or a chosen hitter. Nonetheless, including Alonso would have a domino impact on the roster. Guerrero might slide over to 3rd, the place mild hitting Ernie Clement is atop the depth chart. He made 12 appearances on the sizzling nook in 2024, his most since his rookie yr in 2019, displaying drastically improved protection. 

Likewise, the Blue Jays pitching workers has questions as spring coaching approaches. Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios and Chris Bassitt are a strong trio. Francis Bowden was wonderful when inserted into the rotation however must show himself. The fifth starter spot stays up within the air because the oft-injured Alek Manoah and Yariel Rodriguez are prone to battle for that place. Jeff Hoffman and Yimi Garcia ought to strengthen the bullpen, however one other reliever or two would assist.