Things are trending in the right direction for the Toronto Blue Jays - and not just in a “good vibes” kind of way. After a strong 2025 campaign, they’ve followed it up with an offseason that’s been aggressive, calculated, and potentially transformative. With Spring Training on the horizon, Toronto looks like a team that’s not just aiming to compete - they’re aiming to contend.
The front office has already made some serious noise, adding right-hander Dylan Cease to the rotation, bringing in Cody Ponce for depth, and signing Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto - a move that could pay dividends both at the plate and in the clubhouse. These aren’t just filler moves; they’re the type of acquisitions that can shift the dynamics of a roster.
But the Blue Jays might not be done yet.
With the free-agent pool thinning out, Toronto’s name is still floating around in connection with some of the top remaining bats - including Eugenio Suárez and Cody Bellinger. Both would bring power and experience to a lineup that, while talented, could use a bit more thump and postseason pedigree.
At the same time, there’s another storyline developing - one that could have just as big an impact on the roster, but in a different way. Trade chatter is picking up across the league, and for the Blue Jays, that means eyes are turning toward the outfield - specifically, center field.
Myles Straw has been identified as one of the top trade candidates at his position, and that’s not a name Blue Jays fans were expecting to see in the rumor mill this winter.
Straw, who played 137 games last season, brought a defensive presence that can’t be overstated. He covered ground, made tough plays look routine, and gave Toronto a level of outfield stability that’s hard to find. He wasn’t just a glove-first guy either - he came through in key postseason moments and quickly carved out a spot in the hearts of Jays fans.
But baseball is a business, and Toronto’s outfield situation is getting crowded. With multiple starting-caliber outfielders vying for playing time, Straw becomes a valuable - and potentially expendable - asset.
The Blue Jays didn’t bring him in last offseason expecting him to be a long-term fixture; the initial move was tied more to international bonus pool maneuvering during their pursuit of Roki Sasaki. But Straw’s performance changed that narrative - at least temporarily.
Now, with Toronto still looking to upgrade in key areas, Straw’s name being floated as a trade chip makes sense from a roster construction standpoint. He could net a solid return, whether that’s bullpen help, infield depth, or a prospect package.
Still, it’s a tough pill to swallow. Straw’s impact on the field - especially in October - was undeniable. Losing him wouldn’t just be about defense or stats; it would be about chemistry, continuity, and the kind of intangible value that doesn’t always show up in a box score.
So, as the Blue Jays continue to reshape their roster, fans should keep a close eye on how this plays out. Toronto has positioned itself well for 2026, but the next few moves - whether it’s a big-name signing or a surprising trade - could ultimately define just how high this team’s ceiling really is.