4 Offseason Priorities the Blue Jays Can’t Afford to Miss
The Toronto Blue Jays' dramatic 2025 season ended in heartbreaking fashion. Now, the team shifts focus toward preparing for a strong 2026 campaign to return to the postseason and complete their championship quest.
President Mark Shapiro and GM Ross Atkins, once criticized but now validated, face important tasks ahead. While the core group that nearly won the World Series remains largely intact, key players need contract renewals and roster improvements must be made.
Key Priorities for Toronto's Busy Winter
- Secure long-term deals for top talent and fill roster gaps.
- Build on the momentum from a hopeful 2025 season despite the crushing end.
Contract Extensions: A Focus on Homegrown Stars
The 2025 season began with a major success: locking up superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a 14-year, $500 million contract. Now, another key homegrown player demands attention.
After a tough 2024, Bo Bichette significantly boosted his value in 2025. Over the regular season, he posted an impressive batting line of .311/.357/.483 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs. In the World Series, despite returning from injury, he hit .348/.444/.478 and delivered a critical three-run homer in Game 7.
Bo Bichette’s 2025 performance "now stands as one of the most in-demand free agents on the market."
Retaining Bichette will be crucial to sustaining the Blue Jays' competitive edge.
Author’s Summary
The Blue Jays enter a high-stakes offseason, focusing on key contract renewals and roster upgrades to build on their near-championship momentum.