The Toronto Blue Jays aren’t just reloading - they’re doubling down. After inking Dylan Cease to a seven-year deal, the Jays have assembled one of the most formidable starting rotations in baseball. And if the buzz around the league is any indication, they might not be done yet.
Right now, Toronto’s rotation features Cease, Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, and José Berríos - a group that blends power, pedigree, and upside. That’s a staff with the potential to dominate in October, not just get there.
And with depth options like Eric Lauer and Bowden Francis available for spot starts, the Jays have built a strong foundation. But this front office isn’t just looking for stability - they’re chasing a title.
There’s growing chatter that Toronto is still exploring ways to bolster its rotation, with familiar names like Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt potentially in the mix for a return. Both veterans have expressed interest in coming back, and there’s a real case to be made for each.
Scherzer, even at this stage of his career, showed in the postseason that he can still rise to the moment, posting a 3.77 ERA across three playoff starts. Bassitt, meanwhile, was a key bullpen piece during that same run and brings the kind of versatility and leadership that can be invaluable over a long season.
Injuries are part of the calculus here. Berríos and Francis have both dealt with health concerns, and Bieber’s Tommy John history isn’t far in the rearview.
That’s why the Jays are reportedly keeping tabs on other mid-rotation arms as well - names like Michael King (Padres) and Zac Gallen (Diamondbacks) are being floated as potential targets. These aren’t just depth plays - they’re the kind of moves that reinforce a rotation built to withstand the grind and deliver in October.
The Cease signing was a statement. After coming within one win of a World Series title in November, the Blue Jays have made it clear: they’re not content with “almost.” This is a team that’s all-in.
And it’s not just the rotation getting attention. Toronto is still active on multiple fronts.
They’re in the market for a closer and have been linked to Pete Fairbanks - a power arm who could anchor the back end of the bullpen. They’re also working to re-sign shortstop Bo Bichette, a franchise cornerstone whose presence at the top of the lineup is as valuable as his glove up the middle.
And then there’s Kyle Tucker, an elite outfielder who’s reportedly on the Jays’ radar - a potential game-changer if they can pull it off.
Put it all together, and the message is clear: the Blue Jays aren’t just trying to compete - they’re building a roster that can win it all. This team is going to be one of the most fascinating stories to watch as the offseason unfolds.