Ah, the Blue Jays and their potential new buddy, Anthony Santander. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Who’s Anthony Santander?” Well, if you’re not up to speed, buckle up, because this ride is about to get exhilarating. MLB Trade Rumors has predicted that Toronto—a team that makes “sensible” moves like a kid choosing between broccoli and chocolate cake—could ink Santander to boost that outfield. Because, let’s face it, they could really use a jolt to their batting lineup.
Currently, we’ve got George Springer down in the outfield, looking like he just had a raucous party with Father Time and losing the battle, and Daulton Varsho, who might as well be on a sabbatical after shoulder surgery. If you squint hard enough, you can almost see their age creeping up like a bad horror movie. The young guns on the roster? Well, they’re more theoretical than a flat-earth theory.
The Blue Jays are like that friend who insists they can make their little brother a star, only to realize he misses every shot. This season, power has been in short supply for the Jays, finishing near the bottom in homers. It’s like they’re trying to win games with pop flies instead of bombs! Only six players managed double-digit home runs, and unless Vladimir Guerrero Jr. suddenly becomes a superhero, things look bleak for the 2025 season.
Enter Santander, who just hit 44 home runs last year. That’s not just a good haul; that’s like finding an extra scoop of ice cream when you thought your bowl was empty! Santander’s home run production over the past three seasons makes him a desirable selection, ranking him with the best sluggers in baseball. It’s like he’s wheeling and dealing with Aaron Judge and company on a first-name basis! And let’s not kid ourselves; seeing a switch-hitter on the roster would let Toronto flex its hitting versatility—because who doesn’t love a surprise?
However, it’s not all chocolate and roses. Santander’s defense is about as reliable as a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest. Still, Toronto’s lack of a designated hitter could mean he doesn’t have to get lost in the outfield every game. There’s a safety net—or rather, a safety turf—here, especially when you consider the potential fallback option if the Jays swing and miss on Juan Soto. Yes, the coveted Soto, who could run faster than Santander can hit from the left side! Good luck landing him, though; he’s apparently on a wishlist that looks more like a stock market crash than a free-agent signing!
Comparable options are on the radar, such as Teoscar Hernández and Jurickson Profar. But let’s be honest; nobody’s clamoring to see the return of the Expos, even if it means watching the Yankees snooze through their own shopping spree. If the Blue Jays can snag Santander for a reasonable price of around $80 million over four years, it might just be the kind of mid-priced miracle they need. After all, who has $600 million tucked under their mattress for Soto? Well, except for some mysterious billionaires, of course!
Now let’s chat about pitchers because the Jays need to reinforce that mound after last offseason’s game of ‘calculated betting’. Rumors are swirling with guys like Brandon Burnes and Blake Snell also spinning in the rumor mill, each cocked like a veteran wildcat. But hey, who doesn’t love a bit of healthy competition? It’s like watching two house cats fight over a cardboard box—endearing yet a touch messy!
But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: the payroll situation. According to reports, Toronto has hovered just under the competitive balance tax threshold, possibly leading ownership to prepare for a massive leap in spending—assuming they hold their collective breath while making the leap! If they want to get serious, they need to weigh the costs wisely so they don’t end up with a bunch of overpriced, rusty players that they’ll shove in the proverbial closet until next season.
In summary, the Blue Jays are at a crossroads where they could become a powerhouse or a punchline. If they successfully snag Santander or, heaven forbid, Soto, it could lead to a delightful season filled with balls flying into the bleachers. However, if their plans fall flat like a bad soufflé, let’s hope the fireworks are in the sky, and not the GMs flying for cover! To the rich and mysterious world of signing players! Cheers!
The potential link between the Toronto Blue Jays and outfielder Anthony Santander makes strategic sense as the Jays seek to bolster their roster. MLB Trade Rumors’ own Anthony Franco anticipated this move when he released his Top 50 Free Agents list earlier this month. As they look to reinforce their lineup, Santander checks vital boxes for the Jays, providing both the necessary outfield depth and a much-needed impactful bat.
Currently, Toronto’s outfield features George Springer and Daulton Varsho, the two primary established players in their outfield. However, Varsho’s shoulder surgery in September complicates matters, potentially sidelining him for the start of the 2025 season. Meanwhile, Springer, now 35, has experienced a gradual decline in his offensive production, with his wRC+ diminishing from an impressive 155 in 2019 to a concerning 95 last year, highlighting the need for an infusion of talent.
The Jays also have several outfield candidates on the 40-man roster, such as Nathan Lukes, Joey Loperfido, and others. However, confidence in these players is not high, especially with Schneider being the only one possessing over 81 major league games of experience and coming off a disappointing season. This instability creates a compelling case for the Jays to pursue significant external additions this offseason.
Additionally, there is a pressing need for more home run power in the lineup. The Jays finished in the middle tier regarding wRC+ and on-base percentage in 2024 yet managed a dismal ranking of 26th in home runs, barely outpacing teams like the Marlins, Rays, Nationals, and White Sox. The statistical reality is stark: only six players on the roster reached double-digit home runs, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. being the sole player to hit 20 home runs in the previous season, underscoring a clear need for enhancement.
Santander could be the answer to this deficiency, following a season in which he belted an impressive 44 home runs. Over the past three seasons, he has accumulated 105 home runs, ranking him sixth in Major League Baseball, trailing only legends such as Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. Given the right-handed hitters that populate the Jays lineup, Santander’s ability to switch-hit would further enhance his attractiveness as a target. His defensive skills may not be stellar, yet his offensive production—an average of .244/.317/.478 and a 124 wRC+ over the past three years—further emphasizes how his acquisition could add value to the team.
Ultimately, Santander stands as a solid alternative should the Jays’ pursuit of Juan Soto fall through. Currently, the Jays remain competitive in vying for Soto’s services, who is expected to command an exceptionally lucrative offer this winter.
While both players possess power and left-handed swings, Soto’s age and stellar plate discipline make him the more appealing option in free agency, as evidenced by his career walk rate, showcasing elite patience at the plate. In stark contrast, Santander boasts a lackluster walk percentage, making him a secondary consideration after Soto.
This means Soto will undoubtedly be the primary focus for many franchises, including the Jays, who view Santander as a potential fallback alongside other outfield free agents. While reports indicate Soto could garner a staggering $600 million contract, Santander’s projected deal is considerably less burdensome at $80 million over four years.
As the offseason progresses, the Yankees have also shown interest in Santander, presenting a competitive landscape for the Jays should they also wish to pursue his talents. Thus, Toronto must weigh their financial capabilities carefully before finalizing any deals on the horizon.
On the pitching front, the Jays are actively engaged with several potential starting pitchers, further highlighting their commitment to elevating their roster. With a veteran trio of Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt set to return, the competition for starting roles is fierce.
The addition of elite pitchers such as Burnes or Snell could provide an invaluable boost to the roster. Burnes remains a leading contender in free agency, projecting a lucrative contract of $200 million over seven years, while Snell and Fried are also set to command significant financial commitments. As the Jays plan their offseason moves, the absence of key players, like Ohtani, pushes them to aim even higher despite a disappointing 2024.
With critical players and management contracts nearing expiration, along with a lingering payroll influence, the Jays appear to be prepping for a decisive offseason filled with potential shifts in strategy.
Draft pick forfeiture presents further complications as each of their potential targets rejected qualifying offers, which is vital for budget considerations as they pursue high-profile free agents. The financial effects of past trades impacting their competitive balance tax status can impact their decision-making significantly.
How has Blake Snell’s performance evolved over the years, and what impact could he have on the Blue Jays’ pitching rotation if signed?
“https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burnebr01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&utm_source=www.mlbtraderumors.com&utm_campaign=2024-11-25_br” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow noopener”>Brandon Burnes and Blake Snell in the mix, the Blue Jays are examining their options closely. The goal is clear: secure talent that can not only contribute immediately but also have a lasting impact on the organization. The focus on improving their pitching depth, coupled with the offensive enhancements from possible outfield signings, underscores their ambitions for the upcoming season.
The recent moves and ongoing talks within the Blue Jays’ front office illustrate their commitment to being competitive in a tough AL East. The balance between maintaining financial viability and investing in talent will be crucial. The potential addition of power hitters like Santander or Soto could resonate deeply within a lineup eager for a power boost, while the search for dependable pitchers highlights a strategic approach to round out their roster.
With so much ongoing dialogue and speculation, the next few months will be critical for Toronto as they aim to shatter expectations and possibly emerge as serious contenders in the league. The stakes are high, and the possibilities abundant—a thrilling time for fans and management alike as they navigate these pivotal offseason decisions.
