The Toronto Blue Jays wrapped up a disappointing 2024 season, and GM Ross Atkins is determined to elevate them beyond mediocrity. Despite staying competitive until the trade deadline, Toronto traded away its expiring contracts but couldn’t keep pace with the AL East’s elite teams, like the Yankees, Orioles, and Red Sox. To contend in 2025, the Blue Jays will need significant roster changes, especially on their 40-man roster, with several players likely to be cut or traded.

 3. LHP Prospect Ricky Tiedemann Might Be Used in an Offseason Trade

Toronto’s roster overhaul could involve trading top left-handed pitching prospect Ricky Tiedemann. As the fourth-ranked Blue Jays prospect per MLB Pipeline, Tiedemann is valuable but may be behind other pitchers in Toronto’s rotation plans, such as Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis. Toronto also acquired top pitching prospect Jake Bloss in 2024 and may bring in a free-agent pitcher, which could push Tiedemann out. The Jays might use his trade value to secure an impact starter or bat for 2025.

2. George Springer Should Be Cut or Traded Before Spring

At 35, George Springer’s recent performance and hefty $50 million price tag over the next two seasons make him a trade candidate. In 2024, he posted a .220/.303/.371 slash line with just 19 home runs and a low WAR. Toronto may consider eating part of his contract to free up roster space for a younger, more productive outfielder. Moving him off the roster could allow the Jays to reinvest in players who can better support their World Series aspirations.

1. Bo Bichette Could Be Dealt Before 2025

With both Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in their contract’s final year, Toronto faces a tough decision on extensions. Guerrero holds a slight performance edge, which could influence the Jays to prioritize his extension over Bichette’s. Moreover, with plans to be active in free agency, Toronto might not have the budget for Bichette’s contract. Trading him would create a path for Orelvis Martinez to step in at shortstop. Bichette’s youth and talent make him attractive to teams like the Dodgers, Braves, and Brewers, who may be willing to give the Jays a competitive offer if they decide to part ways.