The Toronto Blue Jays are heading into 2026 with momentum, swagger, and a clear target on their back. After a bounce-back 2025 campaign that saw them capture both the AL East crown and the American League pennant, this team is no longer flying under the radar. They’re contenders-and they know it.
What’s striking about this year’s squad is how much it mirrors the group that powered through October last fall. The front office wasted no time locking in key pieces early in the offseason, and now, with spring training on the horizon, the Jays are rolling out a roster that looks playoff-ready from the jump. But there are some notable changes-and a few question marks-that will shape the early storylines of the season.
Life After Bo
The biggest shift? Bo Bichette is no longer in the building.
That’s a seismic change for a team that’s leaned on his bat and presence for years. Replacing a player of his caliber isn’t a one-for-one swap-it’s a collective effort.
Andrés Giménez, who was rock-solid at shortstop during the postseason, is expected to hold down that spot full-time now. Ernie Clement, who’s shown versatility all over the infield, slides over to second base, giving Toronto a steady, glove-first middle infield.
Okamoto Arrives, Santander Sidelined
Toronto’s most intriguing addition is Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto, who’s expected to take over at third base. His arrival adds pop and international flair to the lineup, and if his transition to MLB pitching goes smoothly, he could be a major X-factor. The Jays are betting big on his bat playing at this level.
On the flip side, outfielder Anthony Santander will miss most of the season due to injury. It’s a tough break, though his impact since joining the team has been limited. In his absence, Nathan Lukes is the likely candidate to start in left field on Opening Day.
Familiar Faces, New Roles
George Springer remains a fixture at the top of the order, but he’ll continue to serve primarily as the designated hitter-a move that helps keep him healthy and productive. Addison Barger is expected to hit second and take over right field duties, giving the lineup a left-handed spark behind Springer.
Then there’s the heart of the order-Vladimir Guerrero Jr. anchoring first base and hitting third, with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate and Daulton Varsho patrolling center. That trio brings a mix of power, patience, and speed that gives opposing pitchers plenty to think about.
Deep Bench, Flexible Options
One of Toronto’s under-the-radar strengths is their bench depth. They’ve built a roster with enough versatility to adjust on the fly-whether it’s matching up against tough lefties, rotating players to keep them fresh, or plugging holes when injuries inevitably pop up. This isn’t just a top-heavy roster; it’s built to withstand the grind of a 162-game season.
Rotation Reboot: High Ceiling, Higher Expectations
If there’s one area where the Blue Jays might have taken a calculated risk, it’s the starting rotation. Last year’s staff was solid, but this year’s group has a higher ceiling-though perhaps a bit less experience across the board.
Kevin Gausman remains the ace, coming off another strong season that solidified his status as one of the AL’s most reliable arms. But don’t be surprised if new addition Dylan Cease gets the nod for the home opener. Cease brings electric stuff and frontline potential, and Toronto will be eager to see how he performs in a new environment.
Behind them, rookie Trey Yesavage is already turning heads. After a jaw-dropping debut last season-including a postseason performance that featured 12 strikeouts and zero walks in a World Series game-he’s locked in as the No. 3 starter. That’s not just hype; that’s dominance.
Rounding out the rotation are Cody Ponce, a newcomer with plenty to prove, and veteran José Berríos, who’s looking to reestablish himself after being left off the playoff roster last year. If Berríos can bounce back, this rotation suddenly looks five-deep with legit upside.
Bieber’s Return on Hold
One arm the Jays won’t have right away is Shane Bieber. After returning late last season from Tommy John surgery, the team is easing him into the year with a delayed start.
It’s a smart move-no need to rush a former Cy Young winner back too soon. If he returns to form, he could be a massive addition down the stretch.
The Blue Jays are built to win now. They’ve got the star power, the depth, and the pitching to make another deep run.
But they’re also entering 2026 with a different kind of pressure-the kind that comes with expectations. Last year, they were chasing.
This year, they’re being chased. Let the hunt begin.