Blue Jays stuck in neutral after losing out on Roki Sasaki

The Blue Jays were known as the other finalist for Sasaki's services before the latter made his decision. But this isn't anything new for Toronto, which has unfortunately become accustomed to the role of bridesmaid to an elite free agent's bride. 

This is already the second time this offseason that the Blue Jays have lost out on a marquee player after superstar outfielder Juan Soto settled on the New York Mets as his next destination. That's a tough pill to swallow. 

And must we rehash "Ohtani-gate" from 2023, when Shohei Ohtani's plane was rumored to have landed in Toronto around the time of his signing, also with the Los Angeles Dodgers? 

Quite simply, it feels like the Blue Jays are stuck in neutral, unable to move forward with a star player in free agency and stuck with a below-average minor league system, leaving the future uncertain. But their issues shouldn't stem from money: Toronto's ownership group, Rogers Communications (a media conglomerate in Canada), stands as one of the richest in all of MLB, possessing over $50 billion in total assets as of 2024, according to Forbes. 

That seems to be a mere footnote, however.

The good news for the Blue Jays is that there are still some high-level free agents available on the open market: power-hitting first baseman Pete Alonso and former Houston Astros' third baseman Alex Bregman remain unsigned, as does slugging outfielder Anthony Santander, whom the Blue Jays have been connected to at various points this winter. 

Another question for Toronto to mull this winter is whether it'll entertain a trade of first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who has a year of team control remaining. The Mets are interested in acquiring him, according to recent reports. Or perhaps the Blue Jays rekindle extension talks with their homegrown star.

Regardless of which direction they choose, Toronto must yet again pivot after finishing in second for yet another star free agent.