The Toronto Blue Jays are poised to be one of the most talked-about teams this MLB offseason, facing pivotal decisions that could shape their future.
After a surprising last-place finish in the competitive American League East, the Blue Jays have several potential paths to take. With a record-high payroll and star players Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entering the final years of their contracts, the team’s direction is more uncertain than ever.
The Blue Jays could opt to spend big in free agency, bolstering their roster in hopes of reaching the playoffs and convincing Guerrero and Bichette to stay. However, if they decide to go in a different direction, Toronto might consider trading away veterans to set up for a future rebuild.
One player to keep an eye on if the Blue Jays choose to move some pieces is former All-Star starting pitcher Chris Bassitt, who has just one year remaining on his three-year, $63 million contract. Bassitt, who has finished in the top 10 for Cy Young voting three times, had a somewhat underwhelming season last year but remains a valuable asset.
Zachary Pressnell recently predicted that Bassitt could be traded by the end of the Winter Meetings in early December.
“Toronto should have traded Bassitt at the deadline last season, but they kept him around because he was under contract through 2025,” Pressnell noted. “Now, with him on an expiring deal, the Blue Jays could get better value for the same price, especially with a deep free-agent market this offseason.”
Pressnell added that while the Blue Jays might not move Bassitt unless they receive an enticing offer, his trade value could rise once the top free-agent pitchers are signed. If Toronto secures a top free-agent arm, Bassitt’s departure could follow soon after.
At 36 years old, Bassitt shows no signs of slowing down. He pitched 170 innings last season, his lowest total since 2021, and has made 94 starts over the past three years. His veteran presence would make him a valuable addition to any contender’s rotation, making him an attractive trade piece for Toronto. However, dealing him would also reduce their chances of competing for the playoffs in 2024, a difficult decision for the Blue Jays to make.