The Toronto Blue Jays courted Shohei Ohtani this past offseason, showcasing their young superstars like Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette in their pitch. Despite their efforts, Ohtani chose to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The rest of the Blue Jays’ offseason was relatively quiet, with third baseman Matt Chapman turning down a lucrative offer and the team failing to secure outfielder Cody Bellinger. They did sign veteran slugger Justin Turner to a one-year deal.
However, the lack of major signings has impacted the team’s performance in the current season, with the Blue Jays sitting in last place in the American League East division. With a payroll of nearly $230 million for 2024 and several pending free agents, the team faces a significant financial decision. There is speculation that they may trade key players like Guerrero Jr., Bichette, and others before the trade deadline to reshape their roster.
Guerrero Jr. and Bichette, both homegrown talents, have struggled at the plate this season, raising questions about their future with the team. Guerrero Jr. is set to hit unrestricted free agency after next season, while Bichette is under contract for 2025. If the team decides to part ways with them, they could receive valuable trade returns. The Blue Jays are at a critical juncture as they navigate the challenges of retaining their core players while addressing their underperformance.
In addition to Guerrero Jr. and Bichette, the Blue Jays have other players in contract years who are performing well, such as Kikuchi and Turner. These players could be enticing trade targets for playoff contenders. With several key players set to become free agents, the team must make strategic decisions about their future. The front office faces pressure to make the right moves to position the team for success in the long term.
As the season progresses, the Blue Jays must decide whether to rebuild their roster by trading key players or make additions to bolster their chances of reaching the postseason. With uncertainties surrounding the performance of their core players and the financial implications of their contracts, the team is at a crossroads. The decision to trade or retain players like Guerrero Jr. and Bichette will shape the direction of the franchise for years to come. Despite the challenges they face, the Blue Jays have various options available as they navigate this pivotal moment in their season.
