Blue Jays looking to rebound not rebuild in 2018

Toronto Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins addressed the media at the Winter Meetings yesterday stressing his team is looking to rebound not rebuild in 2018.

The American League East was turned upside down earlier this week when the New York Yankees came out of the woodwork at the eleventh hour and acquired Giancarlo Stanton after all signs initially pointed to the Cardinals or Giants being the successful suitor.

According to the Blue Jays GM, they are still prepared to soldier on with intentions of bettering the club and are hopeful of catapulting the team into contention next season. Atkins reiterated with conviction the faith he has in the current cores ability to compete and succeed in 2018 specifically mentioning Josh Donaldson, Justin Smoak, Troy Tulowitzki and Russell Martin and that they plan on rebounding not rebuilding.

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Atkins provided his typical lip service when peppered about the likelihood of retaining the services of Josh Donaldson beyond next season or if he plans to engage Donaldson’s camp about an extension during the winter meetings. He did, however, divulge that it’s hard to imagine making the Jays better without the former MVP.

The GM did not shut the door on the possibility of an acquisition during the meetings suggesting there are a few things that could be close but there is no urgency.

All in all, it was a very quiet day on the Jays front for rumours and rumblings other than Jon Heyman reporting that the Jays were one of four teams speculated to have some degree of interest in outfielder Jay Bruce. This is the rumour that refuses to die however Bruce is apparently seeking a 5-year pact in free agency which seems outlandish if I am a suitor seeking his services.

Former Blue Jay’ Ryan Goins is apparently garnering interest from the New York Mets while pitcher Tom Koehler is said to have at least six teams vying for him.

Next: Toronto Blue Jays Winter Meetings Tracker

We will wait and see what Tuesday brings as the Blue Jays continue to lay the groundwork for future deals in an attempt in rebound in 2018.