Well now that Shohei Ohtani has made it official and he prefers Dodger blue over the Toronto Blue Jays, what is next? Who will the Blue Jays sign? Will Ross Atkins still be the GM much longer? While it does suck that the Blue Jays were once again a bridesmaid and not the bride in this chase for a top talent free agent it doesn’t mean that there are no other solid options out there for them to go after.  Now the names are not as big and bright as Shohei but each one would make a great addition to the Blue Jays roster. I used ChatGPT to help with the scouting reports for each player and will come to my own conclusion about the names.  I have broken them down into categories which are former Blue Jays to bring back, Canadians, Outfielders, and Pitchers.

Former Blue Jays

In this section, we will examine adding some former Blue Jays to the lineup for the 2024 season and not broken down by position.

Marcus Stroman SP

We will start with one of the biggest names of former Blue Jays, not the biggest height-wise.  According to ChatGPT Marcus Stroman’s advantages are:

• Solid Pitching Performance: Stroman has been known for his consistent and solid pitching performance. He has the ability to be a reliable starter, providing quality innings for the team.
• Durable Arm: Stroman has demonstrated durability and the ability to log a significant number of innings in a season. This can be valuable for a team looking for a pitcher who can handle a heavy workload.
• Pitching Repertoire: Stroman possesses a diverse pitching repertoire, including a sinking fastball, slider, and cutter. This variety can make him effective against a range of hitters and situations.
• Ground Ball Specialist: Stroman has a tendency to induce ground balls, which can be advantageous, especially in situations where double plays are needed to get out of jams. This skill can be beneficial for a team’s defense.
• Postseason Experience: If Stroman has postseason experience, it could be an asset for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. Pitchers with experience in high-pressure situations can be valuable in playoff scenarios.
• Leadership Qualities: Stroman has been recognized for his leadership qualities and positive clubhouse presence. This can contribute to team morale and cohesion, creating a positive atmosphere within the organization.
• Versatility: Stroman’s versatility as a pitcher may also be an asset. Whether it’s starting games or coming in as a reliever in certain situations, having a pitcher with flexibility can be beneficial for a team.

While all this is true there are still the stories about when he was first a Blue Jay about not being a great teammate to younger players and ones in the minor leagues while at spring training.  Now that was also years ago, and people do change over time, and I am sure that Marcus is a different person than he was when he was traded away by this current Blue Jays administration back on July 28, 2019.  I think he would be a decent addition to the Blue Jays starting rotation and could be another veteran to help with Alek Manoah and his trying to become the pitcher that he showed he could be when he was named an All-Star.

Jordan Hicks RP

Jordan hicks was one of the key additions made to the Blue Jays lineup at the 2023 trade deadline and did help try to solidify the back end of the Blue Jays bullpen. According to ChatGPT Jordan Hicks has the following advantages:

• Velocity and Fastball Strength: Hicks is known for his impressive fastball, often reaching high speeds. This can be a significant asset for a team, especially in situations where a pitcher needs to overpower hitters.
• Strikeout Potential: With his high-velocity pitches, Hicks has the potential to generate a high number of strikeouts. This can be crucial in critical game situations or when facing tough hitters.
• Late-Inning Relief: If used as a relief pitcher, Hicks could be effective in late-game situations, helping to close out tight contests or preserve leads.
• Versatility: Hicks’ pitching style and repertoire may offer versatility to a team’s bullpen. This can be valuable for a manager in terms of strategic pitching changes based on matchups.
• Experience and Development: Depending on when you are considering adding Hicks, his experience in the league may bring a level of maturity and understanding of the game. Additionally, if he has continued to develop his skills, he may offer an improved performance compared to earlier seasons.
• Injury Considerations: It’s important to note that Hicks has dealt with injuries in the past, including Tommy John surgery. Before adding him to a team, it’s crucial to assess his current health status and consider the potential impact of previous injuries on his performance.

I think the Blue Jays should do whatever they can to try and keep Jordan Hicks in their bullpen for 2024 and beyond. Having a bullpen that has Jordan Romano, Erik Swanson, Tim Mayza and Jordan Hicks for a full season would be one that opposing hitters would not like to be facing at all.  Not to mention the fact there is still Yimi Garcia, Genesis Cabrera, Trevor Richards and whoever else they put there, possibly Nate Pearson?  That bullpen would be a tremendous asset to the team and should help them in the tough American League East division all year and hopefully to a long post season run.

Kevin Kiermaier OF

Now I must admit when I first heard the Blue Jays had signed Kevin last offseason, I was pissed. He was the one guy on Tampa that I could not stand. I thought he was arrogant, and he was the guy who stole the scouting card from Kirk, but I was wrong. He came into Toronto and won everyone over, me included, especially at their home opener with that amazing catch to rob the Tigers of a homerun in dead centre field. According to ChatGPT these are Kevin’s advantages:

• Outstanding Defense: Kiermaier is widely regarded as one of the best defensive outfielders in the league. His excellent range, speed, and instincts make him an asset in preventing hits and runs. Having a strong defensive player like Kiermaier can save runs and impact the outcome of games.
• Run Prevention: Kiermaier’s defensive skills contribute not only to preventing hits but also to stopping opposing baserunners from advancing. This can be crucial in close games and can limit the opposing team’s scoring opportunities.
• Leadership: Kiermaier, as a veteran player, may bring leadership qualities to the team. This can positively influence the clubhouse atmosphere, especially for younger players, and contribute to a cohesive team dynamic.
• Postseason Experience: If Kiermaier has postseason experience, this could be beneficial for a team aiming for playoff success. Players with playoff experience often handle high-pressure situations with more composure, which can be valuable in critical moments.
• Base Running: While Kiermaier is primarily known for his defense, he also possesses solid baserunning skills. He can contribute on the basepaths, potentially adding an element of speed and aggression to the team’s offensive strategy.
• Versatility: Depending on team needs and roster construction, Kiermaier’s versatility as an outfielder could be valuable. He can play all three outfield positions, providing flexibility for lineup adjustments and defensive alignments.
• Experience with Analytics: Kiermaier has shown an understanding and appreciation for advanced metrics and defensive analytics. This can be an asset in today’s game, where teams often use data-driven approaches to inform player positioning and defensive strategies.

Kevin is the kind of player I wish the Blue Jays could keep forever. He is a great teammate, has tremendous talent defensively and is also a good left-handed bat anywhere you place him in the lineup.  There may be bigger names for outfield positions out there and maybe you add one of them and can rotate all 4 outfielders between the outfield and DH positions. That would be a good problem to have especially with the Yankees adding Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo to their lineups this week.

Hyun-Jin Ryu SP

The Korean monster was a great pitcher for the Blue Jays both before and after having to have Tommy John surgery.  He made his return to the lineup this year late in the season when it was really needed and put-up quality innings for the Blue Jays in the post season push.  According to ChatGPT here are his advantages to have on your team:

• Quality Starting Pitching: Hyun-Jin Ryu is known for his pitching skills, including a diverse pitch arsenal and the ability to throw strikes consistently. Having a reliable starting pitcher like Ryu can provide stability to a team’s rotation.
• Experience: Ryu has significant experience in both MLB and international play. His experience can be valuable in high-pressure situations and can serve as a mentor to younger pitchers on the team.
• Consistency: Ryu is known for his consistency on the mound. He has demonstrated the ability to deliver solid performances over the course of a season, which can be crucial for a team’s overall success.
• Strikeout Ability: While not known as a strikeout pitcher in the same vein as some power pitchers, Ryu has the ability to generate strikeouts when needed. This can be beneficial in key situations during games.
• Control and Command: Ryu is often praised for his excellent control and command of pitches. This can help minimize walks and keep opposing hitters off balance, ultimately contributing to a team’s defensive efforts.
• Versatility: Ryu’s pitching style and ability to adapt to different situations make him a versatile asset for a team. He can adjust his approach based on the strengths and weaknesses of opposing hitters.
• International Appeal: Being a South Korean player, Ryu brings international appeal to a team. This can help in expanding the team’s fan base and marketability, especially in regions with a significant interest in baseball.
• Clubhouse Presence: Players’ impact goes beyond their on-field performance. Ryu’s reputation suggests that he contributes positively to the clubhouse environment, fostering team cohesion and a positive atmosphere.
• Innings Eater: Ryu has shown the ability to pitch deep into games, which can be particularly valuable in sparing bullpen arms and providing the team with more flexibility in managing its pitching staff.

Ryu would be a benefit to keep in the starting rotation for the Blue Jays even as a guy farther down in the rotation as a 4 or 5 starter or even if you want to go to a 6-man rotation at some point to keep everyone fresh.  Off the field he has also proven to be a great mentor to some of the younger players including Manoah.

Gio Urshela 3B

Gio Urshela was a Blue Jay for a total of 19 games in the 2018 season and had a batting average of .233 with one home run and 3 RBI in those games. He was traded to the Yankees in August 2018 and that is where he started to show that he could be a good MLB player given the chance.  These are the advantages of Gio Urshela on your team according to ChatGPT:

• Defensive Excellence: Gio Urshela is renowned for his defensive skills, particularly at the third base position. He has demonstrated exceptional fielding, a strong arm, and good instincts, making him a valuable asset in preventing runs.
• Versatility: While primarily a third baseman, Urshela has shown the ability to play multiple positions if needed. This versatility can be crucial for a team dealing with injuries or looking to maximize defensive matchups.
• Consistent Hitting: Urshela has shown the ability to contribute offensively with a combination of average and power. Having a reliable hitter in the lineup can provide stability and contribute to scoring runs.
• Clutch Performance: Urshela has demonstrated the ability to deliver in clutch situations, such as hitting in key moments of the game or producing with runners in scoring position. This can make him a valuable asset in critical game situations.
• Clubhouse Presence: Players with positive attitudes and strong work ethics can have a positive impact on team dynamics. A player like Urshela, known for his professionalism and positive attitude, can contribute to a healthy and motivated team environment.
• Postseason Experience: As of my last update, Urshela had postseason experience with the New York Yankees. Players who have performed well in high-pressure postseason situations can bring valuable experience to a team looking to make a deep playoff run.

I think that Gio would be a good addition to play at third base with Matt Chapman leaving for another team.  He is good defensively and it will also allow you time to further develop the players you have in the minors to one day be the everyday person at the hot corner.

CANADIANS

In this section, we will look at free-agent Canadian Baseball players to add.

 James Paxton SP

Big Maple James Paxton. This is a guy I wish the Blue Jays could have had for years on their team.  We all remember watching James, then with Seattle, pitching a no-hitter on May 8, 2018, at the Rogers Centre to become the First Canadian to do so in Canada, in the MLB.  Here are his advantages according to ChatGPT:

• Quality Starting Pitching: James Paxton has demonstrated the ability to be a quality starting pitcher. He can provide your team with a reliable arm in the starting rotation, capable of pitching deep into games and giving your team a chance to win.
• Strikeout Ability: Paxton is known for his strikeout ability. Having a pitcher who can consistently generate strikeouts is valuable, as it can help control the game, limit opposing offenses, and create momentum for your team.
• Experience: If James Paxton has been in the league for a significant amount of time, his experience can be valuable. He may bring a level of maturity and understanding of the game that can positively influence younger players on the team.
• Versatility: A versatile pitcher like Paxton, who can effectively pitch in various situations, provides flexibility for the manager. Whether your team needs a strong performance in a critical game or relief in a specific situation, Paxton’s versatility can be an asset.
• Playoff Experience: If Paxton has playoff experience, this can be particularly valuable for a team looking to make a postseason run. Players with playoff experience often handle high-pressure situations better and can provide leadership during crucial moments.
• Left-handed pitching: If Paxton is a left-handed pitcher, his presence in the rotation can add diversity and strategic advantages. Left-handed pitchers can be effective against left-handed hitters and provide a different look for opposing lineups.
• Health and Durability: Assuming Paxton is in good health, his durability and ability to stay on the field can be crucial for a team’s success. Having a reliable starting pitcher who can make regular appearances contributes to the overall stability of the pitching staff.

He would help solidify an already great-looking starting rotation the Blue Jays have currently with Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios Chris Bassitt, and Yusei Kikuchi. Having Big Maple add some of his playoff experience to that rotation and help with some of the younger guys as well.

Joey Votto 1B/DH

Joey Votto is another player I wish was a Blue Jay for years.  Joey may be getting up there in age but he is still a great asset to any team. This could end up being his last season being 40 years young so why not have his last season be with his hometown Toronto Blue Jays.  Here are his advantages according to ChatGPT:

Offensive Prowess:

• Votto is known for his excellent offensive skills. He has a high career on-base percentage (OBP) and batting average, making him a valuable asset in terms of getting on base and driving in runs.

Plate Discipline:

• One of Votto’s strengths is his exceptional plate discipline. He has a keen eye for the strike zone and is known for drawing a high number of walks. This ability not only contributes to his own on-base percentage but also puts pressure on opposing pitchers.

Consistency:

• Votto has demonstrated consistent performance throughout his career. Teams value players who can reliably produce at a high level, and Votto’s track record suggests that he can be a reliable offensive contributor.

Leadership:

• Experienced players like Votto often bring leadership qualities to a team. Their presence in the clubhouse can positively influence younger players and contribute to a positive team culture.

Defensive Skills:

• While Votto is primarily known for his offensive capabilities, he also has a solid defensive game. He has won Gold Glove awards for his defensive play at first base, contributing to the overall strength of the team’s defense.

Experience and Veteran Presence:

• Votto’s experience in the league can be invaluable, especially for younger players on the team. His knowledge of the game and understanding of various situations can be beneficial in critical moments during a game.

Fan Engagement:

• Having a player with Votto’s reputation and fan appeal can contribute to increased fan engagement and attendance. This can be valuable for the team from a marketing and revenue perspective.

I can just imagine now being at the home opener and having Joey Votto being introduced to the Sold Out SkyDome, sorry Rogers Centre, and the crowd going nuts for him.  I remember going to see him play against the Blue Jays on my birthday May 22, 2022, and when he hit a home run for the Reds it was one of the only times, I heard loud cheers for an opposing player hitting a home run against the Blue Jays at the Dome. The other time was when I was there for a Barry Bonds home run.  Also, how cool will it be to have a Canadian playing at first base all season long with either Joey or Vladdy occupying that position?

Outfielders

In this section, we will examine some Outfielders the Blue Jays could add as free agents.

Cody Bellinger

Cody Bellinger seems to be the biggest name that is currently available now that Shohei is off the board.  Here are his advantages according to ChatGPT:

1. Versatility: Cody Bellinger is known for his defensive versatility. He can play multiple positions, including first base and outfield. This flexibility allows a team to optimize its defensive lineup and make strategic in-game adjustments.
2. Power Hitting: Bellinger has displayed power-hitting capabilities. He is known for hitting home runs and extra-base hits, providing the team with offensive firepower. His ability to drive in runs and contribute to the team’s scoring is a valuable asset.
3. Gold Glove Defense: Bellinger is an accomplished defensive player and has won Gold Glove awards for his excellence in the field. Having a strong defensive player can significantly impact the outcome of games, preventing opposing teams from scoring and making crucial plays when needed.
4. Youth and Potential: As of my last update, Cody Bellinger was a relatively young player with significant potential for growth. Young players often bring energy and enthusiasm to the team, and their skills may continue to develop, making them key assets for the future.
5. Base Running Skills: Bellinger is not only a power hitter but also has speed on the basepaths. His base running skills can put pressure on opposing pitchers and defenses, creating additional scoring opportunities for the team.
6. Big Game Experience: Bellinger has had success in the postseason, including World Series victories with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Players with experience in high-pressure situations can be valuable assets during critical moments in games and playoff scenarios.

Cody is a big name and I know it will not make Blue Jays fans happy after the whole Shohei being on a private plane rumor, but he is an addition that will greatly benefit the team and make them better overall.  He will also bring being a bog left-handed bat to this lineup that really needs that.

Jorge Soler

Jorge Soler is a solid addition to any team and does have a World Series MVP trophy from his season with the Atlanta Braves in 2021 making him and Livan Hernandez the only two Cuban Players to have a World Series MVP.  Here are the advantages Jorge brings according to ChatGPT:

1. Power Hitting: Soler is known for his ability to hit for power. He has a strong presence at the plate and can contribute significantly to a team’s offensive production. His home run-hitting ability can be a valuable asset in providing extra-base hits and driving in runs.
2. Run Production: With his power-hitting skills, Soler can be a reliable run producer. He has the potential to bring in runs with home runs and extra-base hits, contributing to the overall offensive output of the team.
3. Experience in Postseason Play: Soler gained valuable experience in postseason play, especially during the Braves’ 2021 World Series run. Players with postseason experience can bring a level of composure and confidence to a team during high-pressure situations.
4. Versatility: Soler has played in both right and left field, providing a level of versatility in the outfield. This flexibility can be advantageous for a team’s defensive alignment and roster construction.
5. Clubhouse Presence: Beyond on-field performance, players like Soler can contribute to the team dynamic in the clubhouse. Positive leadership, work ethic, and camaraderie can have intangible but important effects on team morale.
6. Plate Discipline: While known for his power, Soler has also demonstrated the ability to draw walks. A player with good plate discipline can contribute to a team’s on-base percentage, adding another dimension to their offensive capabilities.

Jorge will help in the outfield making it better as well as providing another big right-handed bat to this lineup.

Joc Pederson

Joc Pederson is a guy who I couldn’t believe was let go by the Dodgers, until they got Ohtani officially and now it makes sense money wise.  Joc brings a lot of benefits to a potential Blue Jays roster including the following according to ChatGPT:

1. Power Hitting: Joc Pederson is known for his power at the plate. He has the ability to hit home runs and provide extra-base hits, which can be valuable in driving in runs and changing the momentum of a game.
2. Versatility: Pederson has experience playing multiple outfield positions, making him a versatile asset for a team. His ability to play in different outfield spots can be useful for strategic lineup decisions and defensive flexibility.
3. Postseason Experience: Pederson has been part of successful teams, particularly the Los Angeles Dodgers, and has experienced postseason play. Players with playoff experience can bring a level of poise and understanding of high-pressure situations that can benefit a team in crucial moments.
4. Clubhouse Presence: Beyond his on-field contributions, Pederson is known for being a positive and energetic presence in the clubhouse. Team chemistry and morale can play a significant role in a team’s success, and players like Pederson can contribute to a positive atmosphere.
5. Left-Handed Bat: As of my last update, Joc Pederson bats left-handed. Having a left-handed hitter in the lineup can be advantageous, especially against right-handed pitchers. This can create favorable matchups and put pressure on opposing pitchers.
6. Experience in Big Games: Pederson has been involved in key games, including World Series matchups. This experience can be invaluable during critical moments in the regular season or postseason when composure and confidence are crucial.
7. Fan Engagement: Pederson’s engaging personality and popular home run celebrations have made him a fan favorite. This can contribute to increased fan engagement and support for the team.

Joc is another name that won’t please all Blue Jays fans but when you look at his numbers and what he brings, he is the kind of guy they could benefit from having greatly.

Pitchers

In this section, we will look at some pitchers the Blue Jays could add.

Blake Snell

Blake Snell is another one of those guys who I hated while he was in Tampa but man, I loved him in San Diego, which is my #2 team behind the Blue Jays.  Blake is a great starting pitcher who would be a great addition to the top of any starting rotation.  Here are his advantages according to ChatGPT:

1. Quality Starting Pitching: Blake Snell has demonstrated the ability to be a top-tier starting pitcher. He won the Cy Young Award in 2018, showcasing his talent and effectiveness on the mound. Having a reliable starting pitcher like Snell can significantly strengthen a team’s rotation.
2. Strikeout Ability: Snell is known for his impressive strikeout numbers. A pitcher who can consistently strike out opposing batters is valuable in keeping runs off the board and putting less pressure on the defense.
3. Left-Handed Pitching: Snell is a left-handed pitcher, and having a quality lefty in the rotation can be advantageous. Left-handed pitchers often provide a different look to opposing hitters, and some teams may have more left-handed hitters who struggle against left-handed pitching.
4. Playoff Experience: Snell has experience pitching in high-pressure situations, including the postseason. This experience can be valuable for a team making a playoff push, as Snell has demonstrated the ability to perform well in critical games.
5. Youth and Potential: As of my last update, Blake Snell was relatively young, and his potential for continued improvement was high. Young, talented players can contribute significantly to a team’s success over the long term.
6. Contract Control: The terms of a player’s contract can impact the value they bring to a team. If Snell’s contract is reasonable and provides the team with cost-controlled years, it can be a financial advantage for the team.

Again, Blake would be a great add to the top 3 of the current Blue Jays rotation but is it what they really need right now is another question that they have to ask themselves.

Tyler Mahle

I know Tyler Mahle may not be able to pitch until later into the season because of having Tommy John Surgery back in May, but he could be a great addition to the lineup and help with a late season playoff push like Hyun-Jin Ryu did.  Here are the advantages of Tyler according to ChatGPT:

1. Pitching Performance:

1. Mahle has shown the ability to be an effective pitcher, with a repertoire that includes a fastball, slider, and curveball. Teams benefit from having pitchers who can consistently perform well on the mound.

2. Strikeout Ability:

2. Mahle has demonstrated the capability to record strikeouts. Having a pitcher with a high strikeout rate can be valuable in challenging situations, helping to get out of tight spots and limit opposing teams’ scoring opportunities.

3. Durability:

3. Mahle’s durability and ability to log innings can be an asset for a team. Starting pitchers who can pitch deep into games contribute to reliever management and help preserve the bullpen.

4. Control and Command:

4. Effective control and command of pitches are crucial for a pitcher. Mahle has shown the ability to throw strikes consistently, reducing the likelihood of walks and controlling the flow of the game.

5. Youth and Potential for Growth:

5. As a relatively young player (as of my last update), Mahle may have the potential for further development and improvement. Teams often value young talent with the expectation that they will continue to refine their skills and contribute positively over time.

6. Cost-Effective Option:

6. Younger players, especially those who are not yet eligible for arbitration, can be more cost-effective for teams. This allows organizations to allocate resources to other areas of their roster while still benefiting from a talented player.

 Now his durability will be an issue coming off Tommy John surgery this season but if signed to a multi-year deal it would help the team in future seasons and give the bullpen a bit of a break on his start days.

There are some other names I considered for this like Jung Hoo Lee, Tommy Pham, Liam Hendriks, Mike Clevenger and Seth Lugo but I am not convinced they are the kind of players the Blue Jays should be going after. They are great players in their own right but not sure if they would really fit in the Blue Jays lineup.

Conclusion

So, in conclusion, I believe the Blue Jays should be active in this off-season looking at free agents to help the team. I believe they should be targeting Cody Bellinger, Jorge Soler, Kevin Kiermaier, Joc Pederson, Tyler Mahle, Joey Votto, James Paxton, Gio Urshela, and Marcus Stroman.  I know that they will not end up with all of those players, but you need to put feelers out there to players and hopefully get them to bite on the hook while you dangle the contract on the lure in front of their face.

Let’s Go Blue Jays!!