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Blue Jays in Talks with Free Agent Slugger Anthony Santander After Missing Out on Sasaki

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Anthony Santander Baltimore Orioles Home Run

TORONTO – The Toronto Blue Jays, who missed out on coveted Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki on Friday, are now in discussions with free-agent slugger Anthony Santander, according to two industry sources. The 30-year-old switch-hitting outfielder, who hit a career-high 44 home runs last season, could provide a much-needed power boost to a Blue Jays lineup that struggled offensively in 2024.

Talks between the Blue Jays and Santander reportedly intensified Friday morning. Santander, who started 129 games in right field for the Baltimore Orioles last season, also has experience in left field, where Toronto lacks a clear starter. His addition would complement Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and address the team’s need for a middle-of-the-order bat.

The Blue Jays’ pursuit of Santander comes after another high-profile miss in free agency. Earlier Friday, Sasaki, a highly sought-after pitcher, chose to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This marks the latest in a series of near-misses for Toronto, which has yet to land a headlining free agent this offseason.

In a separate move, the Blue Jays acquired $2 million in additional international bonus pool space from the Cleveland Guardians by taking on outfielder Myles Straw and approximately $12 million of his remaining contract through 2026. The team plans to use this pool space to finalize deals with international players they had previously identified.

Toronto’s offensive struggles last season were evident, as the team ranked in the bottom five in Major League Baseball in home runs and posted a .389 team slugging percentage, good for 20th in the league. Only one player, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., hit 30 home runs, while no other Blue Jay managed more than 19. Santander, who has four 20-homer seasons and has hit at least 28 home runs in each of the last three years, could help address this deficiency.

Santander’s potential fit in Toronto is further bolstered by his positional versatility. While the Blue Jays have George Springer in right field, the 35-year-old is coming off a mediocre season (.220/.303/.371) and could benefit from reduced playing time. Santander’s ability to play both corner outfield positions makes him a logical target for a team in need of offensive firepower.

Earlier in the offseason, Santander was reportedly seeking a five-year deal worth at least $100 million. However, recent reports suggest he may now be open to a shorter-term contract with higher annual values. The Blue Jays had previously made an offer to Santander, but it fell short of his initial asking price.

Toronto’s offseason has been marked by a mix of trades and free-agent pursuits. The team’s most significant move came via trade, acquiring second baseman Andrés Giménez from the Guardians. While Giménez is a defensive standout, his offensive production has been modest, leaving the Blue Jays still in need of a power bat.

As the offseason progresses, the Blue Jays remain linked to other free agents, including first baseman Pete Alonso. However, Santander’s positional fit and consistent power output make him a more natural target for a team looking to compete in the highly competitive American League East.