This article was adapted from Keegan Matheson’s Blue Jays Beat newsletter. To access the complete newsletter, click here. Also, subscribe for regular updates in your inbox.
To simply meet MLB standards, the Blue Jays need significant enhancements for their bullpen, and making it a strong asset will demand even more effort. Clearly, the lineup requires improvements surrounding Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The real question isn’t if moves will happen, but rather how many will be executed.
As the Blue Jays experience the postseason from the sidelines, several critical questions loom for them as the offseason approaches:
1. Will they offer Vladdy an extension?
This inquiry hovers over the entirety of the Blue Jays’ offseason. When approaching free agents, this will be among the first questions they ask, highlighting its importance.
Guerrero has regained his allure. He is admired and respected within the league, especially among fellow Dominican stars. However, a single season with Vlad does not suffice to sway any decisions. Free agents considering multi-year contracts with the Blue Jays will be keen to understand the organization’s outlook for 2026 and beyond. Will the team maintain competitiveness and continue to build around Vladdy? With an option available for Toronto after 2025, both players and agents will certainly take note.
Beyond the on-field performance—where Guerrero is once again one of the league’s elite hitters—he is embracing his role as the face of this franchise in a way that many organizations aspire to replicate. The Blue Jays have something unique in Guerrero—a homegrown talent who has committed to Toronto, embraced Canada, and wishes to remain. This should be their top priority, far exceeding any secondary concerns.
2. What’s the future for Bichette?
Whenever Guerrero or Bo Bichette is discussed, the other’s name is rarely far behind; such has always been the case.
Bichette has just endured his most challenging season, contending with ongoing calf injuries, leaving little room for optimism over the past year. Nevertheless, the Blue Jays recognize, as does the broader baseball community, that this performance is atypical for Bichette, who possesses the potential to become a star in the league when fully healthy.
A year ago, Bichette appeared to be a reliable “sure thing,” dependable from season to season and easy to forecast. That perception has shifted, and while trade discussions are likely to resurface during the offseason, the Blue Jays’ best shot at competitiveness in 2025 relies on Bichette rebounding within their lineup. The outlook for 2026 and beyond appears significantly less certain.
3. How extensive will the bullpen overhaul be?
Historically, this front office has excelled in securing veteran relievers on modest contracts. However, the upcoming offseason requires a more extensive approach, and with the rising costs of bullpen arms, the Blue Jays will inevitably need to invest significantly.
When GM Ross Atkins was recently queried about the identity of the Blue Jays’ closer for 2025, he notably hesitated to affirm Jordan Romano’s position, instead highlighting the collective closing experience of Romano, Chad Green, and others. Regardless of how this situation develops, the Blue Jays must fill the role vacated by Yimi García after his trade to the Mariners, in addition to finding two or three more relievers with real high-end upside. This task will not only be challenging but also financially demanding.
4. Where will the offensive upgrade occur?
The Blue Jays don’t require additional players capable of handling second base or four other positions; that area is sufficiently covered. Instead, they need players who can significantly enhance their offensive output and add power. Period.
First base stands as a possibility, especially with Guerrero’s willingness (or eagerness?) to switch to third base. Although third base could be an option too, left field seems like a more fitting place for this upgrade. It’s crucial to monitor the trade market, as the Blue Jays’ abundance of MLB-ready infield talent will attract other teams, particularly if any club has surplus outfielders, creating an advantageous match.
5. What will the payroll look like for 2025?
Recently, club president and CEO Mark Shapiro indicated that he expects the Blue Jays’ payroll to remain “roughly the same” for next season, with no significant increases or decreases anticipated.
The Blue Jays continue to demonstrate that finances are not a constraint. While the on-field results have yet to match expectations, the narrative of Toronto being underspent or outbid is now outdated and excessively simplistic. The Blue Jays should pursue any major player they desire—Juan Soto included—but with multiple needs, they must select their high-impact moves judiciously.
# Key Offseason Questions Facing the Blue Jays: Analyzing Their Path to Improvement
As the Toronto Blue Jays head into the offseason following another competitive season, several key questions loom over the franchise regarding their strategy for improvement. From roster adjustments to player development, these inquiries will be crucial in shaping the team’s future. Here’s an in-depth look at the critical offseason questions that the Blue Jays must address.
## 1. Will the Blue Jays Pursue a Major Free Agent?
The free agent market is an exciting opportunity for teams looking to bolster their rosters. As the Blue Jays eye potential improvements, will they pursue a high-profile player this offseason?
### Prospective Targets
– **Pitching Help**: With a need for a frontline starter, names like **Shohei Ohtani** and **Yamamoto Yoshinobu** have been floated as potential targets. The acquisition of either could significantly impact the team’s rotation.
– **Offensive Boost**: The Blue Jays could also look to reinforce their lineup with an elite bat. Players like **Matt Chapman** and **Josh Hader** might fit the bill.
**Benefits of Signing a Free Agent:**
– Immediate impact on the team’s performance.
– Increased fan engagement and attendance.
– Enhanced competitiveness in the American League East.
## 2. How Will the Bullpen be Restructured?
The Blue Jays’ bullpen has had its ups and downs throughout the season. Questions abound regarding how the front office will approach its restructuring.
### Current Bullpen Analysis
| Player | Games Played | ERA | Saves |
|——————|————–|——–|——–|
| Jordan Romano | 69 | 3.50 | 35 |
| Yimi Garcia | 60 | 4.20 | 0 |
| Tim Mayza | 60 | 3.80 | 0 |
– **Re-sign or Replace?**: The decision to retain players like **Jordan Romano** versus exploring new options will be critical.
– **Emerging Talent**: Monitoring prospects from the minor leagues could yield affordable, high-impact options.
## 3. Can the Blue Jays Develop Their Young Talent?
The success of the Blue Jays heavily relies on their ability to develop young prospects. The organization has a rich talent pool, and maximizing their potential is essential for the team’s sustained success.
### Key Prospects to Watch
– **Gabriel Moreno**: The catching prospect has shown promise. How he develops could dictate the team’s strategy behind the plate.
- **Alek Manoah**: After a rocky season, his growth is crucial for the starting rotation. Can he bounce back and reclaim his All-Star form?
### Developmental Strategies
- **Investment in Coaching**: Enhancing coaching resources for young players can lead to significant improvements.
– **Minor League Success**: Fostering a winning culture in the minors will help players transition more smoothly to the majors.
## 4. What Changes Will Be Made to the Coaching Staff?
Evaluating the coaching staff is a critical component of the offseason strategy. Will the Blue Jays make any significant changes to their coaching personnel?
### Potential Adjustments
– **Pitching Coach**: Given the inconsistent performance of the pitching staff, a change at this position could be beneficial.
– **Hitting Coach**: Improving the team’s offensive output is paramount. A fresh perspective might yield better results.
### Importance of Coaching Stability
Establishing a strong coaching foundation can enhance player development and ensure a cohesive strategy.
## 5. How Will the Team Address Defensive Shortcomings?
Despite a talented roster, the Blue Jays have experienced defensive lapses that have cost them games. Addressing these issues is essential for a successful 2024 campaign.
### Focus Areas for Improvement
– **Shortstop Position**: With questions surrounding **Bo Bichette’s** defensive reliability, the organization may consider seeking a more defensively sound shortstop.
- **Outfield Depth**: Enhancing outfield defense can reduce the number of runs scored against the team, making a significant difference in close games.
## 6. What Impact Will the 2024 Schedule Have?
The schedule for the upcoming season could heavily influence the Blue Jays’ strategies. A balanced schedule with key matchups against divisional rivals will test the team’s resolve.
### Key Matchups
– **Divisional Rivalries**: Showdowns against the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox will be pivotal for playoff positioning.
– **Interleague Play**: Performance in interleague games could impact the team’s overall record and postseason aspirations.
## 7. Will There Be a Change in Team Philosophy?
As analytics play an increasingly significant role in modern baseball, will the Blue Jays adapt their playing philosophy to leverage data more effectively?
### Emphasis on Analytics
– **Data-Driven Decisions**: Investing in analytics can enhance player performance and in-game strategy.
– **In-Game Management**: Adapting strategies based on analytics insights can provide a competitive edge during critical moments.
## 8. How Will the Fan Experience Be Enhanced?
With a loyal fanbase, improving the overall experience at Rogers Centre is vital for maintaining support.
### Enhancements to Consider
– **Game Day Experience**: Upgrading facilities and enhancing fan engagement initiatives can make attending games more enjoyable.
– **Merchandising Opportunities**: Expanding merchandise options can create additional revenue streams while promoting team loyalty.
## Conclusion
The offseason is a pivotal time for the Toronto Blue Jays, filled with crucial decisions that could dictate their success in the coming years. By addressing these key questions, the organization can forge a path toward improvement, ensuring they remain competitive within the American League East. As fans eagerly await developments, the anticipation for the next season grows, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.
