Blue Jays Lefty Robbie Ray Likely Has A Big Payday In His Future

The Blue Jays are still a threat to sneak into the playoffs in 2021, so it’s fair to say that the organization likely isn’t focused on the offseason just yet.

However, when the offseason does roll around, Toronto is going to have a big decision on its hands.

Ray is set to become a free agent, and he’s likely going to warrant a big deal.

Here’s everything you need to know about the situation.

Ray’s 2021 Campaign Has Been The Best Of His Career

The 29-year-old Ray cannot be stopped this year.

As mentioned, he’s a legit Cy Young candidate, but don’t be surprised if his name pops up on some MVP ballots, too.

The southpaw leads the league in ERA (2.60), ERA+ (171), and hits per nine (6.7).

He also leads the league in innings pitched (166) and batters faced (657), so it’s fair to call him a horse.

Having a reliable front-end starter (who’s able to stay healthy and eat innings) is a massive luxury for any team.

Ray has fanned a whopping 166 batters this season, and he has also racked up a massive 6.7 WAR.

Simply put, he’s dominating.

Ray Is Playing On A Very Team-Friendly Deal Right Now, But He Figures To Get Paid Big Money In The Offseason

Whether it’s with the Blue Jays or another team, Ray figures to secure a big payday in the upcoming offseason.

This season, he’s making $8 million, which is way below market value for a player who’s producing the type of results that he is.

Ray will likely garner a deal with an AAV in the ballpark of $20 million.

That’s just an estimate, but it would be surprising to see the actual figure end up being too far off from that.

As it pertains to a landing spot for the one-time All-Star, it sounds like Toronto is definitely interested in keeping him around.

“According to sources, (the Blue Jays have) attempted to sign [Marcus] Semien to an extension, without success to this point, and plan to approach Ray about a new deal this offseason,” wrote Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

The Jays will have to hope that another team doesn’t swoop him before they get the chance to work something out with the Ray.

Keeping Ray Around Would Be A Big Win For Toronto

The Blue Jays should try to avoid overpaying for Ray, but it would be a big win for the organization to keep him in Toronto for the foreseeable future.

At just 29 years old, he clearly has a lot left in the tank.

Plus, it’s obvious that he’s a great fit with the team.

Just look at what he has accomplished this season.

The Jays have an exceptionally bright future, and they should do everything in their power (within reason) to make sure Ray is a part of their core moving forward.

Wrap-Up

There is sure to be a competitive market for Ray this offseason.

There are countless teams that would love to add an elite starting pitcher of his caliber.

At the end of the day, the former 12th-round pick will likely have a variety of competitive offers to choose from.

His landing spot will ultimately be his decision.

If he truly does want to stay in Toronto, it sounds like all he’ll have to do is signed on the dotted line.