The Toronto Blue Jays wrapped up last season 14 games under .500, finishing at the bottom of the AL East, putting general manager Ross Atkins under intense pressure. With a critical offseason ahead, the team is expected to take a bold approach.

Last winter, the Jays aggressively pursued Shohei Ohtani, only to see him land with the Dodgers. Now, their focus is on Juan Soto, but their chances are slim, as they face stiff competition from the Mets and Yankees in a bidding war. Despite their efforts, Toronto has repeatedly come up short in similar high-stakes situations.

Adding Soto would significantly boost the Blue Jays’ offense, especially with him potentially pairing up with Vladimir Guerrero Jr., one of the AL’s top hitters. However, given the likely outcome, Toronto should pivot to other opportunities. The $600 million set aside for Soto could be better used to secure several impactful players. Here are a few viable alternatives the Blue Jays should consider:

3. Justin Verlander: The Discount Ace Toronto Needs

Justin Verlander’s 2024 season ended with a 5.48 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP over 17 starts, his worst in a legendary career. At 41, Verlander might be nearing the end of his tenure with the Houston Astros, but he could find a new home for one last chance at a Hall of Fame finish. Verlander’s neck injury was a major concern, but with a full winter to recover, he could regain some of his old form. While other starters like Blake Snell command hefty contracts, Verlander is likely to sign a more affordable, one-year deal. This low-risk move could bring significant upside to the Blue Jays’ rotation.

2. Teoscar Hernández: A Potential Reunion with Guerrero

Teoscar Hernández spent five years with the Blue Jays and formed a close bond with Vladimir Guerrero Jr., which could help bring Hernández back to Toronto. The Blue Jays’ offense struggled in 2024, but Hernández had a career year, posting a .272/.339/.501 slash line with 33 home runs and 99 RBIs. His postseason experience and consistent performance for the World Series-winning Rangers could be a valuable addition. With Guerrero eager for a reunion, Hernández could be the power bat the Blue Jays need in the middle of their lineup, filling a hole in the outfield and complementing the team’s other star players.

1. Pete Alonso: The Power Bat Toronto Needs

Even without Juan Soto, the Blue Jays will stay aggressive in the offseason, with Pete Alonso as a top target. Known for his raw power, Alonso would bring a much-needed slugging presence to the Jays’ lineup. While the fit isn’t perfect—since Guerrero is a natural first baseman—the Blue Jays have been preparing Guerrero to transition to third base. Alonso’s power is undeniable, and although he’s known for striking out and going through cold stretches, his postseason heroics with the Mets show he can deliver when it matters. Adding Alonso and Hernández to the lineup, with the possibility of a Verlander signing, could make the Blue Jays a far more competitive team in 2025.