Toronto Blue Jays "Showing Interest" In Big Free Agent Name

The Toronto Blue Jays have shown interest in Amed Rosario, a versatile infielder who is currently a free agent.

Rosario was once a top-10 prospect in the Mets' farm system and was a key component in the trade package sent to Cleveland for Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco in January 2021.

Since then, Rosario's performance has been a mix of promising and inconsistent.

Free-agent UTILs Amed Rosario and Isiah Kiner-Falefa are “on the [#BlueJays] radar”, per @bnicholsonsmith pic.twitter.com/l2Pi0SdZJA

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 27, 2023

In the 2021-22 seasons, he demonstrated above-average offensive production with a .282/.316/.406 batting line, contributing 22 home runs and 31 steals over 1258 plate appearances.

However, his 2023 season was less impressive, batting only .263/.305/.378 with the Guardians and Dodgers​​.

Toronto's interest in Rosario seems to be part of a broader strategy to bolster their roster depth, especially in the infield.

The Blue Jays have recently signed Kevin Kiermaier and Isiah Kiner-Falefa, focusing on enhancing their defense and base running capabilities.

Kiermaier is known for his outstanding outfield defense, while Kiner-Falefa, like Rosario, offers versatility in both the infield and outfield.

Shi Davidi pretty much confirms the Blue Jays are out on Matt Chapman and Cody Bellinger.
Joc Pederson, KK and you guessed it. Sportsnets favourite player Amed Rosario as more realistic options for the penny pinching Rogers
Adjust your off-season expectations Blue Jays fans #MLB pic.twitter.com/j5zLl9HNeA

— PehPeh (@PehPeh75) December 22, 2023

This indicates that the Blue Jays are prioritizing defensive skills and speed in their signings, aligning with new MLB rules that promote base running and athleticism​.

Despite the interest, the actual acquisition of Rosario by the Blue Jays is not a certainty.

Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith has reported that Rosario is "on the team’s radar" and could be a fit "under the right circumstances."

However, Toronto's recent agreement with Kiner-Falefa might reduce the need for Rosario on their roster.

Additionally, the Blue Jays have a number of internal options at second base, and signing Rosario might create a logjam in that position.

While Rosario's speed and contact abilities are appealing, his subpar performance in 2023 might not represent a significant upgrade for a Toronto team looking to improve its offense​​. Photo Credit:  Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports