The Toronto Blue Jays remain active in the free agent market after signing closer Jeff Hoffman to a three-year, $33 million contract and acquiring Andres Gimenez via trade.
ESPN’s Buster Olney reports the Blue Jays have emerged as frontrunners to sign pending free agent Alex Bregman.
"One of the execs speculates that in the end, the Jays are in position to offer the most money, given their level of desperation. Now Bregman has choices to make," Olney wrote.
The Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers have also expressed interest in the third baseman, who isn’t expected to return to the Houston Astros.
Bregman posted a .275/.315/.453 slash line with 26 home runs and 75 RBI in 2024.
The Blue Jays’ pursuit of Bregman aligns with their win-now approach, demonstrated by retaining Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette for their final contract year. Adding Bregman could provide long-term stability at third base, particularly if Guerrero Jr. or Bichette depart via free agency after the 2025 season.
Toronto’s front office faces increased pressure to finalize any potential deal as spring training approaches. The team has maintained payroll flexibility despite their recent acquisitions, positioning them to meet Bregman’s contract demands.
The Astros’ decision to move on from Bregman creates an opportunity for the Blue Jays to secure a proven infielder who’s entering his prime years at age 29.
