Baltimore Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander is among the top remaining free agents this offseason. The 30-year-old is coming off a career-best season, posting a .235/.308/.506 slash line and hitting 44 home runs.
The Orioles, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets are reportedly vying for the slugger’s services. However, Rowan Kavner of FOX Sports recently predicted that the Toronto Blue Jays could be the team to land Santander. His projected contract falls in the range of $75 million to $100 million.
“For the Blue Jays, Santander’s power bat addresses a significant need,” Kavner wrote. “Last season, Toronto’s outfielders ranked fifth-worst in slugging percentage across the majors, and only four teams hit fewer home runs than the Blue Jays. Despite being linked to top free agents in recent years, Toronto has repeatedly fallen short. This offseason, they’ve yet to extend Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or address the power deficiency that has hindered their offense.”
Kavner further highlighted the urgency for Toronto to act while their core is still intact. Adding Santander would represent a critical step forward. Over the past three years, Santander has hit more home runs than all but five players: Pete Alonso, Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Kyle Schwarber, and Matt Olson.
The Blue Jays have gained a reputation for finishing second in free-agent pursuits, but securing Santander could change their trajectory. The switch-hitting outfielder would likely hit behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr., bolstering the lineup and helping the Blue Jays address their long-standing power struggles.
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