This story was excerpted from Keegan Matheson’s Blue Jays Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to receive it regularly in your inbox.
TORONTO — While many view a Yankees and Dodgers matchup as a dream World Series, convincing certain Blue Jays fans might be a different story.
Tim Mayza and Kevin Kiermaier, old acquaintances, have connections to the upcoming 2024 Blue Jays season, and Teoscar Hernández continues to be cherished in Toronto. However, for others, it’s more about the Yankees and Shohei Ohtani, who got away.
No matter how you wish to enjoy the World Series, here are some of the thoughts circulating about the Blue Jays:
Concerning the bullpen, will they invest significantly in “name” relievers or opt for a volume approach to see who performs? — @OwenWGreen
This decision carries great weight as the Blue Jays must acquire three or four reliable major league relievers. The market for quality relievers — consider those at the level of Chad Green and Yimi García — is likely to be expensive. Bringing in several of these players could lead to considerable costs; therefore, the best strategy for the Blue Jays may be to make one significant acquisition paired with a variety of smaller transactions.
Whether it involves Tanner Scott or a trade, if the Blue Jays secure one top-tier reliever, they could pursue additional players aggressively with one-year contracts. This front office has successfully navigated that market before, and by employing a volume strategy, they could potentially find valuable players again.
Do you think the Jays will look to offload one of their larger contracts to enhance flexibility for free agent signings? — @Gregz23
The Blue Jays should — and I stress “should” — have the capacity to spend this offseason without needing to shed salary. Their high-value contracts are essential for success in 2025, too. This team relies heavily on Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt; moreover, Chad Green’s $10.5 million is also integral to the bullpen’s solution. Bo Bichette’s name may come up in discussions, but he represents the best chance for this team to bolster its offensive lineup. The Blue Jays ought to be in a position to spend alongside this, and if financial constraints emerge, the trade market remains appealing.
Considering the players from Buffalo and other fringe MLB talents, which individuals might we expect to be trade pieces, roster inclusions, or Buffalo assets? — @IanBloss
This is another crucial choice that will define the offseason. I see Ernie Clement as a valuable, versatile contributor for the 2025 roster. Regardless of the roster changes, expect a spot for a Gold Glove finalist to be available.
With both speed and the capability to make plays on the ball, No. 18 prospect Will Wagner has earned the opportunity to play second base. I believe a platoon with Orelvis Martinez (No. 2) makes sense. Additionally, Leo Jiménez deserves a spot in the major leagues. His consistent trade interest indicates his value, which is likely to continue. Other players like Spencer Horwitz and Addison Barger are also on the cusp. It would be advantageous for the Blue Jays to convert two depth players into a reliable contributor, such as a reliever.
When will Jays management offer Vladdy a long-term contract? — @fairwaygail
Let’s emphasize the “when” in this scenario. It’s evident to anyone paying attention that the Blue Jays must do everything in their power to retain Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in Toronto; however, timing is crucial. In my view, this needs to happen during the current offseason, or else it may evolve into a protracted issue leading up to Guerrero’s free agency.
If I were a top free agent during this winter, one of my initial questions to general manager Ross Atkins and president and CEO Mark Shapiro would concern their plans beyond the year 2025. Sharing a single stellar season with Vladdy sounds exciting, but envisioning five or six of them sounds even more appealing. Aligning myself with a team that might be in a rebuilding phase, or at least changing directions, a year later wouldn’t be tempting.
If this situation extends into the 2025 season, we could equate it to Aaron Judge’s experience with the Yankees. After completing his season, Judge entered free agency. A number of teams, including the Giants, made significant efforts to secure him, yet he ultimately decided to remain where he was. Free agency can be an integral part of the journey, as it was for Judge, but it indeed carries considerable risk.
Could the Blue Jays end up as a bargaining chip to inflate Soto’s asking price before he eventually signs with the Yankees? — @adam_hutcheon
The Blue Jays will certainly vie for Juan Soto. This is not a secret; it simply reflects the reality of a financially capable team that has long been active at the top tier of the market.
That being said, competing against the two New York teams, laden with their financial resources and pride, poses a significant challenge. I anticipate that Toronto’s interest is genuine… but I suspect Soto will have a New York address in 2025.
Is it necessary for the Blue Jays to invest in another catcher, or can they save money by finding a less expensive backup for Alejandro Kirk? — Jeff M.
For several years, the catching position has been somewhat of a luxury for Toronto, particularly the “backup” role. While many teams struggle to find a competent big leaguer, the Blue Jays have enjoyed a stable situation with both Danny Jansen and Kirk. It’s crucial to maintain that structure.
Relying on Kirk to catch more than 100 games would be a risky gamble. The Blue Jays would be wise to implement a 1A-1B arrangement, ideally bringing in a second catcher who can also contribute offensively. Kirk appeared much more refined as the 2024 season progressed, but history shows how a heavy workload can take a toll on him. Again, it seems I am merely advocating for a reunion with Jansen.
How is Orelvis performing? – @FrostByte123456
Martinez is expected to receive ample playing time in the Dominican Winter League with Tigres del Licey, which aligns with the Blue Jays’ goals. Although he has participated in only a few games thus far, he has already showcased his remarkable power with his .
Martinez must focus on improving his defensive skills, as this is the top priority during the winter ball season. Should he achieve this, his potential remains significant, especially if he excels at hitting left-handed pitchers in a platoon role in 2025.
Blue Jays Offseason Outlook: Bullpen Decisions, Trade Pieces, and Contract Considerations
Understanding the Blue Jays’ Bullpen Needs
The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for an important offseason, and one of their top priorities will be improving their bullpen. Over the past season, the bullpen has shown inconsistencies that have significantly impacted the team’s performance. With a mix of veteran players and emerging prospects, the Blue Jays must make strategic decisions to solidify this crucial area of their roster.
Current Bullpen Performance Overview
To get a clearer picture of the Blue Jays’ bullpen needs, let’s analyze their performance metrics from the previous season:
| Player | Innings Pitched | ERA | WHIP | Saves |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Romano | 65.2 | 2.11 | 0.99 | 25 |
| Tim Mayza | 50.0 | 3.60 | 1.20 | 0 |
| Anthony Bass | 60.0 | 3.35 | 1.10 | 10 |
As evident from the table, while Jordan Romano emerged as a standout closer, the overall depth of the bullpen needs bolstering. The Blue Jays should focus on acquiring reliable arms to ensure they can navigate high-pressure situations.
Potential Free Agent Targets for the Bullpen
With the free agency period approaching, the Blue Jays have several options to consider. Here are a few potential targets that could strengthen their bullpen:
- Andrew Chafin: A left-handed reliever known for his durability and effectiveness against left-handed hitters.
- David Robertson: A veteran with closing experience, Robertson could provide a reliable option in the late innings.
- Michael Fulmer: A former starter turned reliever, Fulmer’s versatility and strikeout potential make him an intriguing target.
Trade Pieces to Consider
In addition to free agency, the Blue Jays may explore trade opportunities to improve their roster. Identifying players who could be on the move is essential to understanding the potential landscape of the team.
Key Trade Candidates
The Blue Jays have several players that could be valuable trade pieces:
- Teoscar Hernández: An impactful hitter with power. If the Blue Jays decide to trade him, they could seek pitching help.
- Raimel Tapia: A utility outfielder who can be packaged with prospects to acquire a high-end reliever.
- Kevin Gausman: While Gausman is a key starter, trading him could yield significant returns in bullpen depth.
Prospects with Trade Value
Toronto’s farm system is flourishing, and several prospects could entice other teams:
- Gabriel Moreno: A highly-rated catching prospect who could be a centerpiece in a trade for a top reliever.
- Jordan Groshans: A versatile infielder with solid potential who can attract interest from teams looking to bolster their infield.
Contract Considerations for Key Players
As the offseason unfolds, the Blue Jays will need to navigate several contract considerations for key players. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective roster management.
Players with Pending Free Agency
Free agency decisions will significantly impact the team’s roster:
- Ross Stripling: A versatile pitcher who may seek a multi-year deal after a solid season.
- Brad Hand: A veteran lefty who has been a stabilizing force in the bullpen but may command a higher salary.
Extensions and Arbitration Candidates
Identifying players who might require contractual extensions or are eligible for arbitration is vital:
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: As a franchise cornerstone, discussions around an extension are expected to be a priority.
- Bo Bichette: Another young star who could become eligible for arbitration, making contract discussions essential.
Benefits of Strengthening the Bullpen
Investing in the bullpen offers several advantages for the Blue Jays:
- Increased Win Potential: A reliable bullpen can swing close games in favor of the Blue Jays, leading to more victories.
- Player Development: New acquisitions can mentor younger pitchers, fostering their growth and improving team cohesion.
- Trade Leverage: A strong bullpen enhances the team’s ability to negotiate trades, giving the Blue Jays more options.
Practical Tips for the Front Office
As the offseason progresses, here are some practical tips for the Blue Jays’ front office:
- Assess Internal Options: Evaluate minor league pitchers who could fill bullpen roles.
- Prioritize Versatility: Target pitchers who can handle multiple roles (long relief, setup, closer) for greater flexibility.
- Utilize Analytics: Leverage advanced metrics to identify undervalued pitchers in free agency and trade markets.
Case Studies: Successful Bullpen Transformations
Several teams have successfully revamped their bullpens in recent years, providing valuable insights for the Blue Jays:
- Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays consistently find success with low-cost bullpen options, focusing on analytics to maximize performance.
- San Diego Padres: The Padres made significant trades to bolster their bullpen, resulting in a more reliable pitching staff during their playoff run.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players
Listening to players’ perspectives can provide additional insights into the bullpen’s dynamics:
“Having a reliable bullpen is essential in securing wins. You need to trust your teammates in high-stakes situations,” said Jordan Romano, the Blue Jays’ closer.
This sentiment underscores the importance of building a cohesive and effective bullpen, as it directly influences the team’s performance and morale.
Conclusion
The Toronto Blue Jays face an exciting offseason filled with opportunities to enhance their bullpen, explore trade possibilities, and address contract considerations. With a solid plan and strategic decisions, they can set themselves up for success in the upcoming season.
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