MLB Rumors: Toronto Blue Jays Closing In On Big Name Free Agents

The Toronto Blue Jays have been busy this offseason climbing the MLB power rankings and adding to their roster. Management knows the team is on the cusp of breaking out, led by a powerhouse offense and a rotation that's become deeper than most people realize. Turns out the Blue Jays aren't finished, they continue to discuss contracts with some big named free agents including the likes of Freddie Freeman, Kyle Schwarber and Kenley Jansen. 

Freddie Freeman is represented by the same agency — Excel — that negotiated George Springer’s deal with the Blue Jays a little more than 1 year ago. https://t.co/MTI6i6o0Rz

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 14, 2022

There's competition for each as the offers have been flying off the charts since the lockout was lifted only a few days ago. The free-agent frenzy was expected and has been as entertaining as advertised as the movement has been early and often since operations resumed. The Blue Jays have picked up their spring training activities in Dunedin, Florida meanwhile general manager Ross Atkins works the phones trying to land another big fish.

Freeman is being pursued aggressively by the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, so the Blue Jays will be in tough to get his name signed on the dotted line. Money isn't an issue as all three teams have the means to make substantial offers. It's going to come down to where Freeman thinks he has the best chance of winning another World Series ring.

Jansen makes a ton of sense for Toronto as they could use another high-leverage arm for their bullpen who has experience saving games. The intimidating closer saved 38 games in 2021 and has a resume that includes three all-star teams and seasons of 41, 44, and 47 saves. 

#BlueJays should go after Kenley Jansen.

Spend that money you offered Villar and try to get one of the best closers in the league.

— Brennan Delaney (@Brennan_L_D) March 13, 2022

As for Schwarber, he's likely plan B and a good one indeed. The 29-year-old once again found his stroke in 2021, blasting 32 HR, hitting .266 and driving in 71 runners. While he got worse as the postseason went on for the Boston Red Sox, he showed he's capable of being an everyday player who can make a regular impact. The Blue Jays could use a left-handed power bat and he fits the bill to get a look at DH, first base and in the outfield corners.

Keep an eye on the Blue Jays, they're not done making moves and the next one could be their biggest. Management knows it's closing in on a World Series-type roster and now it's going to be up to the players to produce. But first, the final touches before first pitch opening day. If it's Freeman, things are going to get crazy up north.

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