The Baltimore Orioles, already grappling with the departure of ace pitcher Corbin Burnes to the Arizona Diamondbacks, now face another looming challenge: the possible exit of right fielder Anthony Santander. The 2024 All-Star is entering free agency after a career-best season, leaving the Orioles with no immediate internal replacements for two key losses.
Santander’s free agency has taken an intriguing turn, with the Toronto Blue Jays emerging as a frontrunner to secure his services. After falling short in their pursuits of high-profile players like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, the Blue Jays are now intensifying talks with Santander, looking to strengthen their lineup for the competitive AL East.
Santander initially sought a lucrative five-year, nine-figure contract, but Toronto has presented a four-year, $82 million offer that appears mutually appealing. As a switch-hitting slugger with 155 career home runs and a career slash line of .246/.307/.469, Santander’s blend of power and consistency would significantly enhance the Blue Jays’ offensive depth.
While other teams, such as the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants, might benefit from Santander’s talents, Toronto is positioning itself as his primary suitor. The Orioles, meanwhile, have signaled a possible shift in strategy by signing outfielder Tyler O’Neill to a three-year deal earlier in free agency, potentially preparing for Santander’s exit.
Santander’s potential move to Toronto underscores the fluidity of baseball’s free agency landscape. As the Orioles prepare for a roster overhaul, the Blue Jays are poised to capitalize on Santander’s impact, setting the stage for a shift in the AL East’s competitive balance.
