Toronto Blue Jays aim high with pursuit of ace reliever Pete Fairbanks
The Toronto Blue Jays have already made headlines this offseason, pulling off a significant move by signing ace pitcher Dylan Cease to a seven-year contract. This acquisition signals a clear message: the Blue Jays are all-in for the upcoming season. With their sights set on further strengthening the roster, they are now in the hunt for a top-tier reliever to bolster their bullpen.
Looking to Improve the Bullpen
Last season, the Blue Jays’ bullpen ranked 16th in Major League Baseball with a 3.98 ERA. While Jeff Hoffman emerged as a reliable closer, nailing down 33 saves out of 40 opportunities, the team saw mixed results from other arms. Brendon Little, Yariel Rodriguez, and Mason Fluharty contributed throughout the regular season, but it was the addition of Seranthony Dominguez from the Baltimore Orioles and Louis Varland from the Minnesota Twins at the trade deadline that transformed the bullpen into a formidable force during their postseason run. However, the unit ultimately fell short in Game 7 of the World Series, highlighting the need for added depth.
Targeting Pete Fairbanks
Recent reports indicate that the Blue Jays are casting their net toward reliever Pete Fairbanks. Originally drafted by the Texas Rangers, Fairbanks has made a name for himself with the Tampa Bay Rays since 2019, steadily developing into one of the league’s most underrated bullpen assets. His breakout season came in 2023, where he posted an impressive 2.58 ERA while racking up 25 saves and a career-high 68 strikeouts.
Fairbanks has consistently delivered solid performances, notching 27 saves last season while appearing in 61 games—third most on the Rays. After earning $4 million last year, his value is expected to rise significantly in light of the current reliever market, which has seen high-leverage arms fetch hefty contracts. For instance, Ryan Helsley recently secured a two-year, $28 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, setting a precedent for what teams might be willing to spend.
Competition in the Market
The competition for Fairbanks is heating up, with the Miami Marlins also expressing interest. Landing the Rays’ closer would be a significant boost for the Blue Jays, providing them with multiple options to close out games effectively. While Hoffman has expressed willingness to share closing duties, manager John Schneider could strategically deploy both pitchers based on matchups and player fatigue.
An Active Offseason Ahead
As the offseason unfolds, Blue Jays fans can expect the team to remain active in their pursuit of quality relievers. Both Dominguez and Chad Green are unrestricted free agents, and their futures with the team are uncertain. With the Cease signing serving as a bold opening act, Toronto’s front office appears committed to making moves that could redefine their competitiveness in the coming season.
