Top MLB insider Jeff Passan unveiled a major offseason preview on ESPN today, highlighting the Blue Jays as one of the key teams consistently linked to high-profile free agents over the past several offseasons.

A major takeaway from the article was that Toronto was the first of at least seven teams to hold an in-person meeting with Juan Soto, who is expected to secure one of the most lucrative contracts in MLB history. Adding Soto would be a game-changer for a Blue Jays lineup already featuring stars like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Passan also shared additional insights into Toronto’s potential offseason moves, whether or not they land Soto. The Blue Jays were identified as possible contenders for two top pitchers: Corbin Burnes, who posted a 15-9 record and 2.92 ERA with the Milwaukee Brewers, and Max Fried, who went 11-10 with a 3.25 ERA for the Atlanta Braves.

Additionally, Passan confirmed Toronto’s interest in Houston Astros infielder Alex Bregman and hinted at the possibility of a reunion with popular pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, who was traded to the Astros earlier this year.

It seems that no matter who the Blue Jays pursue, Toronto’s ownership group, led by Edward Rogers, is ready to invest heavily in the right free agents this offseason.

“I think the Blue Jays are in a new era with Edward [Rogers] at the helm and his overall commitment to sports,” said Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, last week. “As a businessman, he’s a powerhouse in sports. There are very few in the industry comparable to him, and I’ve been saying this about Toronto for years.”

Of course, just being mentioned as a potential landing spot doesn’t guarantee success. Only time will reveal whether the Jays can make significant strides this offseason, following a fifth-place finish in the American League East last year.