January 11, 2024
The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully reached agreements with 11 of their 12 arbitration-eligible players, effectively avoiding arbitration. This move is a significant step in solidifying their roster for the upcoming season.
Key Agreements and Contract Details
- Jordan Romano: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $7.75 million deal. Romano, hailing from Markham, Ontario, has been a crucial part of the Blue Jays’ bullpen.
- Daulton Varsho: The outfielder signed for $5.65 million.
- Danny Jansen: The catcher agreed to a $5.2 million contract.
- Cavan Biggio: The infielder signed a $4.21 million deal.
- Tim Mayza: The left-handed pitcher agreed to a $3.5 million contract.
- Alejandro Kirk: The catcher signed for $2.8 million.
- Erik Swanson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.75 million deal.
- Santiago Espinal: The infielder signed for $2.725 million.
- Trevor Richards: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.15 million contract.
- Génesis Cabrera: The left-handed pitcher signed for $1,512,500.
- Nate Pearson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to an $800,000 deal.
Notable Exclusion
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: The All-Star first baseman was not part of this list of agreements. Guerrero Jr., who is in his second-to-last year of arbitration eligibility, may still negotiate a contract with the Blue Jays before a hearing is required.
Impact on the Blue Jays
These agreements mark a proactive approach by the Blue Jays to secure their core players, ensuring stability and continuity in their lineup. The mix of experienced players and rising talents like Romano, Varsho, and Jansen positions the Blue Jays as a competitive team for the 2024 season. The situation surrounding Guerrero Jr. remains a significant point of interest, given his impact and popularity.
