The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off an AL Pennant win but a World Series loss in 2025, are addressing key weaknesses this offseason. They signed free agent Dylan Cease and retained Shane Bieber to strengthen their starting rotation. Meanwhile, the team recognizes the need to improve its below-average defense.
Following their run to the 2025 World Series, where their offense shone but defense lagged, the Toronto Blue Jays are focusing on roster upgrades for 2026. The team signed starting pitcher Dylan Cease from the San Diego Padres earlier this week on a reported $210 million deal. Cease, aiming for his sixth straight season with at least 200 strikeouts, posted a 4.55 ERA last season despite playing behind one of baseball's worst defenses.
The Jays also benefited from Shane Bieber triggering his player option to remain for 2026, following a midseason trade. Prospect Trey Yesavage made his debut late in 2025 and is set for a full rookie year. This bolsters a rotation that includes Kevin Gausman and Jose Berrios, with the team's 2025 pitching staff finishing with a 4.19 ERA, .241 opponents' batting average, and 1.27 WHIP.
Defensively, the Jays ranked outside the top 10 in major categories, allowing 4.45 runs per game (19th), posting a .700 defensive efficiency (tied for 14th), .985 fielding percentage (18th), 86 errors (19th), 118 double plays (tied for 17th-19th), and 1,272 assists (25th). Despite individual accolades, including Gold Glove finalist nods for Ernie Clement at third base and utility, Alejandro Kirk at catcher, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first base, and Andrés Giménez at second base—plus winner Ty France, who played briefly before a trade to the Twins—the unit underperformed.
The Jays remain in contact with free agent All-Star Bo Bichette and are seeking at least one late-inning reliever, having monitored Raisel Iglesias and pursued Phil Maton before his signing with the Cubs. Current bullpen features Jeff Hoffman as closer, with Yimi García, Louis Varland, and Brayden Fisher in setup roles.