The Toronto Blue Jays are set to pursue high-profile targets like Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker this offseason, but filling depth roles will be crucial. General manager Ross Atkins emphasized team flexibility in key areas such as the bullpen and rotation. Beyond splashy moves, bolstering the bench and pitching depth could determine their success in 2026.
As the Toronto Blue Jays enter the offseason, their focus extends far beyond re-signing shortstop Bo Bichette or acquiring outfielder Kyle Tucker and top pitchers. While those headline-grabbing pursuits place them alongside contenders like the Dodgers and Yankees, the bulk of their work involves addressing depth needs that proved vital in their 2025 American League East title run.
A prime example is the December 13, 2025, Minor League deal with left-hander Eric Lauer, who returned from Korea and stepped into the rotation, helping secure the division. Now, the team must plan for similar breakthroughs amid uncertainties in their pitching staff beyond 2026.
Bullpen Considerations
The closer role remains in flux with Jeff Hoffman, who posted a 4.37 ERA, 84 strikeouts over 68 innings, and 15 home runs allowed in the regular season. He also surrendered a game-tying homer to Miguel Rojas in the ninth inning of World Series Game 7. When asked about Hoffman's future in the role two weeks ago, GM Ross Atkins was noncommittal: “The great thing about Jeff is he’s not married to that,” Atkins said. “Talking about the cohesion and team approach [of the Jays], he epitomizes that. I think he would be open to anything that makes us better.”
Free agents like Edwin Díaz, Devin Williams, and Robert Suarez are on the market, with Díaz expected to command a large contract. The Blue Jays previously discussed Ryan Helsley with the Cardinals at the trade deadline, and interest persists.
Bench and Backup First Base
The team seeks a versatile bench bat and backup first baseman behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr., similar to past roles filled by Ty France, Justin Turner, and Brandon Belt. Despite loving France's Gold Glove performance, he may seek more playing time elsewhere. The current bench projects to include outfielders Myles Straw, Nathan Lukes, and Joey Loperfido, plus a reserve infielder and backup catcher. A left-handed bat with positional flexibility is ideal, especially with Guerrero logging 24 designated hitter days last season and George Springer and Anthony Santander splitting the rest.
Rotation Depth
Questions loom for 2026: Bowden Francis's role, Eric Lauer's contributions, Trey Yesavage's AL Rookie of the Year momentum, and breakthroughs from prospects like Ricky Tiedemann or Gage Stanifer. Past depth saviors like Lauer and Ross Stripling have been key, but the team may need 10 or 11 starters. Other candidates include Jake Bloss (recovering from Tommy John surgery), Lazaro Estrada, Easton Lucas, Paxton Schultz, and Adam Macko. Finding another gem at pitching's most valuable position will be challenging.