At Kazuma Okamoto's introductory press conference, Toronto Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins affirmed the team's openness to further roster enhancements following their $337 million spending spree, including the new infielder's signing. Amid a sluggish market, interest persists in Kyle Tucker and others, as agent Scott Boras hails Toronto's rise as a premier destination.
Building on recent acquisitions like Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, Tyler Rogers, and Okamoto—totaling MLB's highest offseason spend at $337 million—the Blue Jays showed no signs of slowing down Tuesday.
Atkins emphasized proactive improvements: “We’ll always be open to making our organization better if there’s a way to do that.” He balanced additions with playing time for current players, citing strong ownership backing. “That remains the case now, and we’ve made it better. We feel good about our team,” he added.
Rumors intensify around outfielder Kyle Tucker, who toured the team's Dunedin facilities in December and seeks a $400 million pact. Shortstop Bo Bichette reunion talks have cooled post-extension failures, though not ruled out. Discussions continue with Alex Bregman to counter suitors like the Red Sox.
Boras, agent for Cease and Okamoto, praised Toronto: “Toronto has become something in the league that is not [just] one of the premier franchises, they’ve become a state-of-the-art example.” He quipped the slow hitter market is partly Atkins' fault for elevating standards.
Upcoming 2026 expirations for George Springer, Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, and Daulton Varsho offer flexibility. Manager John Schneider linked heightened interest to the 2025 World Series run, projecting over three million in attendance. All-in for a first title since 1993, the Jays' offseason remains active.
