The Toronto Blue Jays have shown their intent to be aggressive in the offseason, highlighted by their pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto. However, they are also targeting another high-profile player, ace pitcher Corbin Burnes. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Blue Jays recently held an in-person meeting with Burnes, signaling serious interest.
Burnes, a former Milwaukee Brewer who spent the 2024 season with the Baltimore Orioles, boasts an impressive resume. The four-time All-Star and former National League Cy Young Award winner recorded a 2.92 ERA in 2024, his best since his Cy Young-winning campaign in 2021. Burnes is projected to command a lucrative six-year, $180 million deal in free agency, per Spotrac.
For the Blue Jays, signing Burnes would provide an elite anchor for their rotation, especially as they face potential roster shifts in the near future. Key stars Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are set to enter free agency after the 2025 season, while current pitchers Kevin Gausman and José Berríos approach the end of their contracts. Adding Burnes would ensure the team remains competitive next season while securing a top-tier arm for the future.
Burnes, known for his durability, has consistently made over 30 starts in each of the last three seasons and has a 2.94 ERA with 858 strikeouts since 2021. At 30 years old, he remains a dominant force on the mound and is poised for a significant payday as one of baseball’s premier pitchers. The Blue Jays see him as a game-changer for their rotation and a key to sustained success.
