The Toronto Blue Jays have been linked to several high-profile players this offseason, signaling that they are not afraid to make big moves and invest heavily in improving their roster. The team has shown interest in securing a historic deal for Juan Soto and has also been connected to Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes, among other top names. ESPN’s Jeff Passan recently highlighted the Blue Jays as one of the top three teams vying for Burnes, alongside the San Francisco Giants and Baltimore Orioles.
Passan noted that Burnes’ impressive resume—four All-Star selections, a Cy Young Award, and the second-best ERA in Major League Baseball over the last five years (2.88)—makes him one of the most coveted pitchers on the market. While the Blue Jays face stiff competition from teams like the Giants and Orioles, it would be premature to rule out other potential suitors, as Burnes’ credentials continue to draw attention across the league.
It’s widely speculated that Burnes could secure a contract worth more than the $218 million deal that Max Fried received from the New York Yankees. Given Burnes’ superior performance and younger age compared to Fried, this expectation seems realistic. In 2024, Burnes joined the American League East, where he had an impressive season, posting a 2.92 ERA over 32 starts with the Orioles.
For the Blue Jays, landing Burnes would be a major statement and a significant boost to their rotation. With the team already being linked to several big names, acquiring Burnes could be the blockbuster move they need to solidify their championship aspirations. The continued rumors and speculation surrounding Burnes’ potential move to Toronto only add to the intrigue, as fans and analysts alike wait to see if the Blue Jays will make a splash this offseason by securing one of the top pitchers in the game.
