The 2021 Blue Jays Roster has seen massive upgrades in the last couple of days. Toronto Blue Jays management had remained quiet, and patient in the free-agent market, while the Blue Jays faithful criticized the team for their disinterested approach towards MLB’s free-agent market.
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2021 Blue Jays Roster: Upgraded, but Still in Need
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2021 Blue Jays Roster: Tyler Chatwood and Kirby Yates Acquired
The Toronto Blue Jays made their first free-agent acquisition with the announcement of Tyler Chatwood signing with the team.
Tyler Chatwood, now 31-years old, signed a one-year contract worth $3 Million. The nine-year MLB veteran has spent time with the Los Angeles Angels, Colorado Rockies, and most recently the Chicago Cubs. In nine seasons, Chatwood has played 197 games, which he has started 143, he has a 51-57 record, with two complete games.
Kirby Yates Officially Signs
The Toronto Blue Jays didn"t wait long after signing Tyler Chatwood to announce another addition to their bullpen. The Blue Jays announced the signing of reliever Kirby Yates.
Kirby Yates is arguably one of the best closers in MLB, taking into account an injury-plagued 2020 season that clouded his impressive 2019 campaign. In 2019, Kirby Yates appeared in 60 games for the San Diego Padres, he finished the year with 41 saves and also had an impressive 1.19 ERA.
The Blue Jays hope to get the Kirby Yates from 2018-2019, coming off surgery to remove bone chips in his elbow in August leaves some wondering if he can bounce back. The Toronto Blue Jays medical staff has cleared Yates and the deal is done. Kirby Yates has signed for one-year with a $5.5 Million price tag, this could rise to $10 Million with incentives.
George Springer Signs Richest Contract in Toronto History
Toronto Blue Jays fans around the world were sent into a frenzy on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. The Blue Jays agreed to terms with outfielder George Springer on a mega deal that becomes the richest in Toronto Blue Jays History.
George Springer agreed to a six-year contract worth $160 Million, which tops Vernon Wells"s $125 Million contract, the highest amount ever paid by the Blue Jays before George Springer.
The Houston Astros 11th overall selection in 2011 has spent seven seasons in MLB, George Springer has a .270 Batting average, with 832 hits, and 174 home runs. In 2020, he had 50 hits, 14 home runs, and a .265 batting average in 51 games played.
The most exciting aspect of signing George Springer besides his consistency during the regular season is his postseason numbers, an impressive .349 OBP along with a .269 BA and, 19 home runs in 70 hits. He is also a World Series Champion and World Series MVP.
2021 Blue Jays Roster: Still Need Pitching
The Blue Jays can now call it a successful offseason, however, they still need a number one or two starting pitcher. The addition of Tyler Chatwood will hopefully provide depth at the back end of the rotation but, they still need a starter that can compliment Hyun-Jin Ryu and allow MLB"s top right-handed pitching prospect Nate Pearson more time to develop in the bottom half of the rotation, or from the bullpen.
As of right now the Toronto Blue Jays starting pitching rotation looks like this:
This is a starting rotation that will win you ball games but will not be the rotation that takes you deep into the playoffs or to the World Series. The Blue Jays have been linked to every free agent during the offseason, including starting pitcher Trevor Bauer.
11 International Prospects, Including Top 30 Ranked Prospect Manuel Beltre
The Toronto Blue Jays did make waves among their fans and baseball media during International Signing Day and the signing period that followed, they welcomed 11 prospects to the organization. The Blue Jays announced the signing of 16-year old shortstop Manuel Beltre from the Dominican Republic.
Ranked among the top 30 International Prospects and viewed as the most Advanced-Hitter available. Manuel Beltre agreed to sign for 1-year at $2.5 Million.
Not the signing announcement all fans were anticipating, however, one that caught the eyes of many in the baseball world. The potential the young infielder possesses had many scouts and media members intrigued, Toronto hopes he develops into a player that will join the team in the future.
New Additions Provide Optimism and Excitement
There is no doubt that the Blue Jays have made improvements and the roster is becoming one that could be a serious contender in the AL this year. If the Blue Jays could bring in a starting pitcher like Trevor Bauer or the same caliber, then you can put them in the mix for a deep playoff run. With time left for more moves to be made, expect Toronto to continue to improve and add the necessary pieces to become a serious World Series contender.
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main image credit Embed from Getty Images
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