The Toronto Blue Jays are navigating a tight offseason budget, primarily focused on signing superstar Juan Soto, while also seeking affordable options to bolster their starting pitching depth. With significant roster changes, including the trade of Yusel Kikuchi and Alek Manoah's injury, the current rotation needs reinforcement. The team has identified potential “buy-low” candidates like Walker Buehler and Shane Bieber, both dealing with injury recovery but offering high-upside potential. A successful acquisition of either pitcher could enhance the depth of their rotation while allowing other young talents in the organization to develop further.

By the Numbers
  • The Blue Jays' starting pitchers logged the 5th-most innings in MLB over the last two seasons.
  • The team posted a 3.90 ERA, ranking 4th lowest in the league.
State of Play
  • The Blue Jays have a projected payroll capacity of $20-40 million after potentially signing Soto.
  • Only two minor league starters, Jake Bloss and Adam Macko, are currently on the 40-man roster.
What's Next

The Blue Jays may pursue contracts for Buehler and Bieber, using creative compensation structures to mitigate injury risks while they regain form. This strategy would allow for an effective transition as the rotation experiences personnel changes in the coming seasons. A successful signing could set an expectation for a more competitive 2024 season.

Bottom Line

Targeting injury-recovery pitchers like Buehler and Bieber could be a savvy move for the Blue Jays; this approach allows for strategic future planning while addressing immediate depth concerns. Investing in their reclamation offers a balanced risk-reward scenario, boosting the team's overall pitch depth at a reasonable cost.