The Toronto Blue Jays have been active in free agency but have yet to secure any major signings. They made an offer to Juan Soto, which was declined before Soto joined the New York Mets, and after Corbin Burnes signed with Arizona, reports emerged that the Blue Jays had offered a higher contract. Now, they are pursuing Anthony Santander with a large free-agent offer.

Héctor Gómez of Ministerio Deportes reported on Wednesday that the Blue Jays are now the leading contenders for Santander, who has also drawn interest from the Angels, Tigers, Astros, Mets, and Orioles. Gómez added that Toronto’s offer to Santander is for four years and $82 million.

If Santander accepts the four-year deal, it could pave the way for the Blue Jays to extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The first baseman is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, and trading him would signal the start of a rebuild. However, adding Santander would likely delay any such plans.

Santander, who spent his first eight seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, had a breakout year in 2024, hitting 44 home runs—second in the American League behind Aaron Judge. His addition would strengthen the Blue Jays’ lineup and bolster their chances of competing in a relatively weak AL.