The Blue Jays introduced their high-profile free-agent signing, Anthony Santander, during a press conference on Tuesday. General manager Ross Atkins shared with reporters that the team still has some financial flexibility after securing Santander with a five-year deal (via Keegan Matheson of MLB.com).
While Atkins didn’t specify particular targets, he mentioned that the front office is focused on pursuing upgrades for both the lineup and the pitching staff. Recently, the Jays have been linked to players like Max Scherzer and Jurickson Profar, while also maintaining interest in Alex Bregman, Nick Pivetta, and potentially Pete Alonso. Many of the top remaining free agents have been associated with Toronto at some point this offseason.
If the Blue Jays make a move on the pitching front, they might prioritize strengthening their rotation. Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet noted on Monday that the team has been “less aggressive” in addressing the bullpen since signing Jeff Hoffman to a three-year deal. Earlier in the offseason, they acquired Nick Sandlin and re-signed Yimi García. These moves, along with holdovers like Chad Green and Erik Swanson, provide potential high-leverage options. While the bullpen still isn’t elite, it’s a notable improvement over last season’s group.
Adding a starting pitcher could also bolster the bullpen indirectly. Yariel Rodríguez, currently slated as the fifth starter behind Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis, is capable of excelling in both starting and relief roles. Bringing in another starter would allow Toronto to utilize Rodríguez as a multi-inning reliever, assuming the rotation remains healthy out of spring training.
On the position player side, there are still areas for improvement. Despite the addition of Santander, the Blue Jays could benefit from acquiring a corner outfielder. Bringing in a left fielder would enable Santander to stay in right field while allowing George Springer to split time as a designated hitter and part-time outfielder. Additionally, the third base position remains a question mark, as most of their current options lack significant MLB experience. However, a second major infield acquisition, following the Andrés Giménez trade, might block prospects like Will Wagner, Orelvis Martinez, and Addison Barger from getting opportunities to showcase their potential.
The Blue Jays narrowly stayed under the luxury tax threshold last year, but this season they are well above the $241 million baseline. According to **RosterResource**, their current Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) figure is approximately $263 million, which is $2 million over the second penalization tier. This estimate includes an $18.5 million projection for Anthony Santander, though the deferred payments in his contract may lower the “true” average annual value to around $14 million. If that adjustment is confirmed, it could bring the Jays back into the first penalty tier. However, any significant new acquisition would likely push them back into the second tier.
Toronto faces a 20% tax on spending between $241 million and $261 million and a 32% tax on spending between $261 million and $281 million. Exceeding $281 million would result in even harsher penalties, including a 10-spot drop for their top draft pick in 2026.