Blue Jays in talks with 44 HR outfielder as possible free agent acquisition

Anthony Santander, yankees, Blue Jays
Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

The Toronto Blue Jays experienced another bitter disappointment when star Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki decided to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night. Swinging and missing on top free agents has, sadly, become the norm in Toronto.

You can’t blame them for trying, though. In fact, and since they didn’t succeed with Sasaki or Shohei Ohtani a year ago, they are still determined to make a splash and let their fans know that they are actually making an effort to be better and to return to October play.

Blue Jays have reportedly pivoted to FA Anthony Santander

Anthony Santander, Orioles, Tigers, Blue Jays, Yankees, Phillies
Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

They have now pivoted to top free agent outfielder Anthony Santander, who has stated his willingness to take a short deal so long as his average annual value (AAV) is high and the contract has opt-outs. Could the Blue Jays make a move for the former Baltimore Orioles slugger? They can, and they are apparently in a good position to get his signature:

“Jays continuing to talk to Santander. Making some progress but not done yet, and Jays have been disappointed before. Fresh off the Sasaki disappointment, also eying Alonso plus significant starters and relievers. @ShiDavidi @bnicholsonsmith on Santander,” MLB insider Jon Heyman reported via X.

The Blue Jays are desperate to make a splash

At this point, it’s safe to assume that the Blue Jays will probably end up with one of Pete Alonso or Santander. They are considered favorites for the former now that the New York Mets are out of the race, and they could potentially pursue the latter regardless of their pursuit of the Polar Bear.

Santander would be a nice addition to the Blue Jays’ roster. He is coming off a career-high 44 home runs with the O’s, and a 129 wRC+. Those are nice offensive numbers, but he will need to hit to justify his potentially high price tag because he offers no defensive or baserunning value.

Still, the Blue Jays need to produce runs and show soon-to-be free agent Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that they are in fact trying to compete in 2025 and over the long haul. Santander would definitely help in that regard.

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