Blue Jays’ Pursuit of Corbin Burnes: Deferred Dreams and Missed Opportunities?
Deferred Dollars Derailed Burnes deal
Despite being heavily linked to top free agents this past winter, the toronto Blue Jays’ pursuit of pitcher Corbin Burnes may have been hampered by a heavily deferred contract offer.While initial reports suggested the Jays offered Burnes more than the $210 million he eventually signed wiht the Arizona Diamondbacks, the structure of the deal allegedly included a significant amount – reportedly 75% – in deferred money.
Burnes Chose Diamondbacks Offer
Burnes himself indicated that Arizona’s offer was “by far the best offer that we had.” Although the exact figures of Toronto’s offer remain undisclosed, the large amount of deferred money likely reduced the present-day value of the contract, making Arizona’s deal more appealing. It is indeed worth noting that Burnes’ contract with the Diamondbacks also includes $64 million in deferrals and an opt-out clause after the 2026 season, influencing its overall financial framework.
No Offer Made to Alex Bregman
Adding another layer to the Blue Jays’ offseason narrative, the team reportedly did not extend an offer to third baseman Alex Bregman, despite previous speculation linking him to Toronto. The Blue Jays ultimately addressed their needs at second base by acquiring Andres Gimenez and choosing to explore internal options for the hot corner.
Blue Jays Navigate Early Season Injuries: Scherzer’s Thumb Troubles, Varsho’s Rehab progress, and Swanson’s Recovery
Toronto — The Toronto Blue Jays face early-season challenges as key players Max Scherzer, Daulton Varsho, and Erik Swanson work their way back from injuries. Scherzer’s thumb issue,Varsho’s shoulder rehab,and Swanson’s nerve entrapment have sidelined them,requiring strategic roster management.
Scherzer’s Debut Cut Short by Thumb Issue
Max Scherzer, the veteran right-hander signed to a one-year, $15.5 million contract, saw his Blue Jays debut cut short after just three innings due to a persistent right thumb injury. He has been placed on the 15-day injured list. Recent imaging tests revealed no further damage after a cortisone injection, but the team and Scherzer are proceeding cautiously.Scherzer is currently limited to playing catch and throwing off flat ground, with no immediate plans to ramp up his throwing program.
Varsho Progressing Through shoulder Rehab
Outfielder Daulton Varsho, recovering from rotator cuff surgery last September, is set to participate in full extended Spring Training games this week. Having started the season on the 10-day injured list, Varsho is nearing a return. Throwing remains the final hurdle,but his participation in othre baseball activities during Spring Training suggests a perhaps swift ramp-up. A Triple-A rehab assignment is anticipated, with a possible return to the active roster before the end of April.
Swanson Nearing Rehab Assignment After Nerve Issue
Relief pitcher Erik Swanson is also on the mend after a median nerve entrapment in his right arm landed him on the injured list. He is scheduled to face live hitters this week, a crucial step before beginning a minor league rehab assignment. A return date has not been set, but progress is being made.
Blue Jays Adjust Roster Amidst Injuries
With these injuries, the Blue Jays are making adjustments to their roster. In other roster news, infielder Orelvis Martinez was optioned to Triple-A, with the club opting for veteran options such as Cavan Biggio and Ernie Clement to split time at third base.
Ryan burr Progressing in Rehab After Shoulder Fatigue
Right-handed pitcher Ryan Burr is making strides in his recovery after starting the season on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder fatigue. Burr recently completed a bullpen session, marking a significant step forward in his rehabilitation process.
Burr Aiming for Return After shoulder Issues
Burr’s recent bullpen session indicates positive progress as he works toward returning to the active roster. The team has not yet announced a specific timeline for his return, but the triumphant bullpen is an encouraging sign for the reliever.
details regarding the intensity and length of the bullpen session have not been disclosed, but the fact that it occurred without setbacks suggests Burr’s shoulder is responding well to treatment and strengthening exercises.
Impact on Team’s Bullpen
Burr’s absence has placed additional strain on the team’s bullpen, highlighting the importance of his eventual return. Prior to the injury, burr was expected to be a key contributor in middle relief, offering stability and experience to the pitching staff.
The team will continue to monitor Burr’s progress closely, with further bullpen sessions and potentially simulated game action planned as he advances through the rehab protocol.
Given the failed Burnes pursuit due to deferred contracts, will the Blue Jays adjust their strategy for future free agent signings, and perhaps prioritize offering more upfront money?
Blue Jays’ Offseason & Injury Update: Q&A
Get the inside scoop on the Blue jays’ offseason moves and current injury woes with this Q&A.
Corbin Burnes & deferred Contracts: The Burning Questions
Q: Why did the Blue Jays reportedly lose out on Corbin Burnes?
A: The Blue Jays allegedly offered a contract with a meaningful portion of the money deferred, meaning a large percentage of the payment would be made in the future. This reduced the contract’s present-day value, making Arizona’s offer more appealing to Burnes.
Q: How much money was deferred in Burnes’ deal with the Blue Jays?
A: It is reported that the Blue Jays offered Burnes a contract with 75% of the money deferred.
Q: What is the advantage of a team offering a deferred contract?
A: Deferring payments can definitely help teams manage their immediate payroll and potentially free up funds for other acquisitions. Though, it can impact a player’s willingness to sign, as they receive less money upfront.
Q: Did the Blue Jays ever make an offer to Alex Bregman?
A: No, the Blue Jays reportedly did not make an offer to Alex Bregman.
Injury Report: Scherzer, Varsho & Swanson
Q: What is Max Scherzer’s injury, and when might he return?
A: scherzer has a right thumb injury that cut short his Blue Jays debut. He’s on the 15-day injured list, and while tests showed no further damage, there’s no firm return date yet. He’s limited to playing catch for now.
Q: What’s the update on Daulton Varsho’s recovery?
A: Outfielder Daulton Varsho is recovering from rotator cuff surgery. He is set to participate in full extended Spring Training games this week. A Triple-A rehab assignment is anticipated with a possible return to the active roster before the end of April.
Q: When will Erik Swanson be back?
A: Relief pitcher Erik Swanson is recovering from a median nerve entrapment. He is scheduled to face live hitters this week before a minor league rehab assignment.No return date has been set.
Q: What’s the deal with Ryan Burr?
A: Ryan Burr is recovering from shoulder fatigue. He recently completed a bullpen session, marking a significant step forward in his rehabilitation process. The team has not yet announced a specific return timeline.
Q: How are the Blue Jays adjusting their roster due to these injuries?
A: The Blue Jays have optioned infielder Orelvis Martinez to Triple-A. They’re using veteran options like Cavan Biggio and Ernie Clement to split time at third base.
Q: Trivia Time!
A: Did you know that deferred payments can sometimes extend decades into the future? Players could be receiving payments long after their playing careers are over!
Stay tuned to see how the Blue Jays navigate these challenges and shape their season!
