As we approach mid-May, there’s already speculation surrounding the Blue Jays’ future. While rumors suggest the Orioles eyeing Jays closer Jordan Romano, any major moves are unlikely until later in the season. The Jays have invested too much in this season to give up easily. They’ve built a solid core over years and invested significantly in their payroll. Until it’s absolutely necessary, they won’t wave the white flag on the season by trading key players like Romano, whose contract extends to 2025.
Rumors may circulate, especially if the team’s performance falters, but significant decisions won’t happen before July. It’s only then, perhaps around the all-star break, that they might entertain offers for pending free agents like Yusei Kikuchi and Yimi GarcÃa.
Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have shown improvement recently, but other players like Cavan Biggio, Justin Turner, Daulton Varsho, George Springer, and Alejandro Kirk are struggling. While Bichette and Guerrero’s resurgence is promising, the team’s offensive challenges persist.
In the standings, the Jays face stiff competition to secure a playoff spot, especially with strong teams in the American League Central. If even one wild-card team emerges from that division, the Jays’ playoff chances diminish significantly.
If the Jays do decide to sell, it’s more likely they’ll aim to retool rather than completely rebuild. This means trading pending free agents but retaining key players like Guerrero and Bichette for future contention. Selling off all valuable assets would tarnish the reputation of president Mark Shapiro, so a middle-ground approach seems probable.
On individual performances, GarcÃa has been outstanding in the bullpen, while Kikuchi has shown consistency in his pitching. Springer’s struggles raise questions about his leadoff spot in the lineup.
