Blue Jays-Anthony Santander free agency is heating up

The The Toronto Blue Jays are aggressively chasing free agent Anthony Santanderwith discussions is gaining momentum. The Blue Jays, who have been linked to Santander since the start of the offseason, are eager to secure his services after missing out on other notable free agents.

“SOURCE: Blue Jays talks with Anthony Santander have moved on. Jace is determined to make a big move.” via Hector Gomez on X, formerly Twitter.

Recent reports indicate that Toronto’s interest in the 30-year-old has intensified, especially after Rocky Sasaki’s decision to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although Sasaki’s signing did not affect the Blue Jays’ payroll, the team was still looking for an acquisition leading into the offseason.

Santander is coming off the best season of his career with the Baltimore Orioles. The power outfielder hit 44 home runs and drove in 102 runs in 2024, earning his first All-Star selection, the Silver Award and finishing 14th in AL MVP voting. Over the last three seasons, Santander has established itself as one of the leading players in the league, with an average of 36 home runs in 162 games.

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Toronto’s need for a bat is great. Last season, the Blue Jays ranked in the bottom five in MLB for homers, and their own 0.389 percent decay ranked them 20th overall. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been the team’s only consistent source of power, hitting 30 home runs while no other player has topped 19. With Santander’s proven ability to produce offense, he would provide a much-needed boost to a lineup that struggles to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

In addition to its power, Santander’s durability provides significant value. Since the start of the 2022 season, he has missed just 26 games. However, his performance at the Rogers Center was a mixed bag; while he has been a thorn in Toronto’s side during back-to-back games, his career average at the ballpark is just .194.

Toronto’s negotiations with Santander reportedly include discussions of a potential four-year deal worth $82 million. However, rumors suggest that Santander may now be open to a short-term deal with a higher average annual value, which could move negotiations forward.

Should the Blue Jays complete a deal with Santander, their outfield will feature an exciting trio, including Gold Glove winner Daulton Warshaw and four-time All-Star George Springer. Combined with the core of Guerrero, Beau Bichet, Andres Gimenez and Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays could boast a lineup capable of competing in the AL East.

For now, the Blue Jays’ determination to land Santander remains clear, with the team scrambling to solidify a deal that could significantly boost their 2025 postseason aspirations.