Blue Jays Pursue Backup Plans, Including Interest in Alex Bregman, Luis Severino, and More
The Toronto Blue Jays are actively pursuing Juan Soto, but as with all teams, they are also exploring alternative options. According to Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet, alongside their pursuit of Soto, the Blue Jays have shown interest in several other notable players, including Max Fried, Luis Severino, Anthony Santander, and Alex Bregman. MLB Trade Rumors previously reported on their interest in Fried and Santander.
Bregman, 31, stands out as one of the top free agents this offseason. Over his career, he has posted a .272/.366/.483 batting line, translating to a 135 wRC+ and indicating he’s been 35% more productive than the average hitter. His strikeout rate has consistently been below league average for the past six seasons, and while his walk rate dipped slightly in 2024, it remains above average overall. Bregman is also known for his strong defensive play at third base and his leadership qualities in the clubhouse. MLBTR projected him for a seven-year, $182 million deal at the start of the offseason. While the Astros are expected to pursue his return, Bregman has also been linked to the Tigers, Red Sox, Phillies, and now the Blue Jays.
For Toronto, both third base and second base are positions that need strengthening. Ernie Clement served as the primary third baseman in 2024, putting up a modest .263/.284/.408 batting line, but earning strong marks for his defensive versatility. If Bregman were to join the Blue Jays, he would likely take over as the everyday third baseman, potentially shifting Clement into a utility role, which could still allow him to contribute regularly.
Second base was also in flux for the Jays last season, with Spencer Horwitz and Davis Schneider splitting time, alongside Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who has since departed. Horwitz has performed well at the plate but isn’t a natural second baseman, while Schneider had a down year. The addition of Bregman, or even shortstop Willy Adames (who could transition to third base), could help solidify the infield and provide both short-term and long-term stability for the Jays.
Toronto’s interest in Severino comes as part of their broader search for starting pitching. While the Blue Jays have been tied to Fried and Corbin Burnes, Severino stands out as a potentially more affordable option. Once a promising ace with the Yankees, Severino’s career was marred by injuries between 2019 and 2021. However, he bounced back in 2024 with the Mets, making 32 starts and throwing 182 innings, with a solid 3.91 ERA. While not as high-profile as Fried or Burnes, Severino could be a cost-effective addition to the Blue Jays’ rotation. MLBTR projected him for a three-year, $51 million deal, which would fit within the team’s projected payroll.
Toronto’s rotation currently includes veterans José Berríos, Kevin Gausman, and Chris Bassitt, with Bowden Francis likely filling the fourth spot after a strong second half in 2024. The fifth spot is up for grabs, with Yariel Rodríguez and Jake Bloss as potential candidates. Rodríguez has experience in relief, which could make him a valuable option for the bullpen, while Bloss may need more time in the minors.
Financially, the Blue Jays are projected to have a payroll around $189 million for 2025, with some flexibility remaining. While the team has expressed interest in adding notable free agents, the potential acquisition of Soto—whose contract would exceed their typical budget—may require them to stretch their financial limits. Adding Bregman or Severino would be more feasible within the current payroll constraints, though signing any of these players would come with penalties, as they all rejected qualifying offers. The Blue Jays may need to forfeit their second-best draft pick and $500,000 in international bonus pool space if they sign one of these players.
As the offseason progresses, Toronto’s pursuit of Soto and other high-profile free agents will be closely watched, with Bregman, Severino, and others potentially playing pivotal roles in the team’s efforts to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season.
