Blue Jays: We want an impact upgrade, just not that guy

Not interested in a reunion

The Blue Jays could approach the offseason in a number of different ways. They need some help for their pitching staff, especially in the rotation, but otherwise there are a few strategies they could use to improve.

And bringing back former faces isn’t one of them.

Despite the fact that the Blue Jays could still use a better defensive centre fielder, the idea that Kevin Pillar can be that guy has expired in Toronto. I’ve read comments from some fans on social media asking why the Blue Jays don’t consider Pillar as an option, but I think they’re forgetting a few things. His defence was declining even before he left Toronto, and it hasn’t stopped since. He rated as a -0.4 dWAR defender in 2019, and -0.2 in during a shortened schedule. Both seasons also saw him spend time in an outfield corner. He’s still good with the glove, but he’s not what he used to be at all.

The other former Blue Jay I thought I’d mention on this list is Roberto Osuna, who was designated for assignment by the Astros this offseason and is still available. The market has been extremely slow so far, but it’s been completely dead when it comes to Osuna. Granted, he was dealing with an arm injury in 2020, but it sounds like he could be ready to go next year, as he was throwing on flat ground last month.

My guess is Osuna could sign on a near-minimum contract, and the Blue Jays still wouldn’t have him back after the way he was jettisoned out of town in 2018.