Blue Jays: Way Too Early 2021 Free Agent Targets

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 15: Clayton Kershaw #22 of the Los Angeles Dodgers walks toward the dugout after retiring the side against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning in Game Four of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 15, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 15: Clayton Kershaw #22 of the Los Angeles Dodgers walks toward the dugout after retiring the side against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning in Game Four of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 15, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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Blue Jays
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 11: President and CEO Mark Shapiro of the Toronto Blue Jays talks to general manager Ross Atkins before the start of their home opener against the Milwaukee Brewers at Rogers Centre on April 11, 2017 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

The Blue Jays had a productive offseason, bringing in a lot of talent that should raise this team’s ceiling and make them legitimate contenders for a playoff spot.  Even with all the moves that GM Ross Atkins made last winter, this Jays team is still not complete and is an addition or two away from being true championship contenders.  These moves could come at the deadline, but I think that next offseason is where we’re going to see some more heavy lifting done by the front office to complete their master plan.

The Jays went all in on their lineup this winter, adding guys like George Springer and Marcus Semien to a group that was very good last season, even more lethal.  While the additions to the lineup were great, the pitching staff, especially the rotation, was neglected and could potentially hold them back this season.  Robbie Ray, Steven Matz and Tanner Roark are all set to be free agents next offseason, leaving three rotation spots to fill.

Next winter could be a great opportunity to not just bring in depth arms to raise the floor of the rotation, but could be a chance to bring in an impact arm that can pitch at the top of the rotation and win a playoff game.  The Jays could also add another impact position player, going all in on the lineup.

Obviously we still have an entire season to play before free agency, so the team’s needs are going to change based on performances this season.  These are the five players who I think the Blue Jays are going to have the most interest in during the next offseason, based on the roster right now and their current needs.