Blue Jays Set Sights on Sandy Alcantara to Bolster Rotation
The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off an impressive run to the American League pennant, find themselves at a crucial crossroads this offseason. With several key players, including star shortstop Bo Bichette, facing free agency, the front office will need to make some tough choices that could shape the team’s future.
Prioritizing Key Contributors
Bichette’s status is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the Blue Jays’ offseason narrative. Retaining the talented infielder is a top priority, but the organization must also address other pressing needs within the roster. Notably, the starting rotation stands out as an area ripe for improvement, especially with veterans Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt also hitting the open market.
The Allure of Sandy Alcantara
In this context, the Blue Jays have emerged as potential suitors for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara. Analysts have pointed to Toronto as a fitting destination for the former Cy Young Award winner, who possesses an attractive contract structure. With his deal remaining affordable for the next two seasons, teams aiming to compete—excluding those undergoing significant rebuilds—are likely to express interest.
Mike Axisa of CBS Sports highlighted this potential fit, suggesting that the Blue Jays and the Atlanta Braves should actively reach out to the Marlins regarding Alcantara. His addition could provide the necessary reinforcement to an already talented pitching staff.
Strengthening the Rotation
The offseason began on a positive note for the Blue Jays with Shane Bieber opting into his player option for the 2026 season. Joining him in the rotation are promising talents Trey Yesavage, José Berríos, and Kevin Gausman. However, to truly solidify their pitching lineup, Toronto will need at least one more reliable arm.
Acquiring Alcantara would not only enhance the depth of the rotation but would also transform it into a formidable force. While Alcantara has struggled to reach the heights of his 2022 Cy Young-winning campaign following Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2024 season, recent signs indicate he may be rounding back into form.
A Potential Game-Changer
Bringing Alcantara into the fold could turn the Blue Jays’ starting rotation into a significant asset, one capable of competing against the best in the league. With the right moves this offseason, Toronto has the opportunity to solidify its position as a powerhouse in Major League Baseball, setting its sights on a World Series run in the seasons to come.
