Blue Jays Miss Out on Top Free Agent Target
It looks like the Toronto Blue Jays are out of the running for Alex Bregman.
According to KPRC-TV sports director Randy McIlvoy, Bregman has narrowed his choices to the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and Detroit Tigers, leaving both the Houston Astros and Blue Jays out of contention—a scenario that had been widely speculated earlier in the week.
Blue Jays’ Offer Falls Short
Reports last month indicated Toronto had put forward a six-year contract proposal, while Houston made a similar $156 million offer in December. With both clubs now out of the picture, Bregman and his agent, Scott Boras, could be shifting focus to shorter-term deals with opt-outs and a higher annual salary.
What’s Next?
With Bregman seemingly off the board, the Blue Jays may need to explore other options to bolster their infield as they look to remain competitive in the AL East.
The Toronto Blue Jays have had a frustrating offseason, missing out on several high-profile free agents, including Juan Soto, Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Pete Alonso, and now Alex Bregman. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t secure any of these marquee names.
However, Toronto has managed to strengthen its roster with some key moves. They signed outfielder Anthony Santander and veteran pitcher Max Scherzer, while also trading for Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez. While these additions bring talent and experience, they may not fully satisfy fans hoping for a blockbuster acquisition.
With spring training approaching, the Blue Jays may still look to make further moves to stay competitive in the AL East.
With Bregman Out, Blue Jays Could Shift Focus to Guerrero Jr. Extension
Now that Alex Bregman is off the table, the Blue Jays’ front office may be more inclined to commit long-term to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is set to hit free agency next winter. Guerrero has made it clear that he doesn’t want extension talks dragging into spring training, meaning the two sides have less than a week to work out a deal before position players report to Dunedin, Florida, next Tuesday.
Third Base Plan Without Bregman
With Bregman out of the picture, Ernie Clement is expected to remain Toronto’s starting third baseman. Coming off a solid 3.4 WAR season in 2024, the soon-to-be 29-year-old has provided value, though his career .643 OPS suggests the team may need offensive help from other sources to stay competitive.
Prospect Watch
Top prospect Orelvis Martínez is also expected to see time at third base once he’s called back up to the big leagues, offering the Blue Jays another potential option at the hot corner as they prepare for the 2025 season.