Extending this player should also be a key focus for the Blue Jays this offseason

We are roughly a month and a half away from Spring Training getting underway before the start of another wild MLB season. With the uncertainty of a season in 2027 thanks to the ongoing CBA negotiations, it's important for MLB teams to secure players before the possibility of a third lockout in the last 30 years.

As the Blue Jays continue to play the waiting game with key free agents like Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker, one Blue Jay is quietly going under the radar as somebody who should get a bit more focus before the season begins.

Daulton Varsho should be extended as soon as possible

Defensive wizard Daulton Varsho had his best year as a Blue Jay in 2025. Despite being riddled with injuries, Varsho emerged as one of the Blue Jays' best hitters, knocking out 20 home runs with 55 RBIs, an OPS of .833, and a wRC+ of 123. There's little to no doubt that a full, healthy season of Varsho would've seen even bigger results.

Varsho is expected to make $11.3 million after the Blue Jays tendered his contract in November, avoiding arbitration. He's entering his sixth year of service in the Majors, meaning he'll be eligible for free agency in 2027. However, should Varsho hit free agency after the 2026 season, then the Blue Jays' outfield plans for 2027 suddenly look a bit grim.

At the time of this writing, the Blue Jays continue to battle for the services of outfielder Kyle Tucker, a player who would be a big piece for the lineup following a World Series appearance. However, if Toronto fails to sign Tucker, then you're looking at not only Varsho's contract expiring, but George Springer's as well, who will hit free agency next year.

The current starting outfield consists of Varsho, Anthony Santander, and Addison Barger, with Davis Schneider and Myles Straw being platoon players for situational pitching. Springer could theoretically get his spot back in right field, but he has found success as the Blue Jays' designated hitter. Regardless, a potential departure of an everyday player in Varsho could hurt Toronto in the long run, especially if they don't end up signing Tucker.

Aside from Varsho's sudden emergence on offense, his defense would also be a big hole to fill if he leaves Toronto after 2026. Varsho, on record, only has one Gold Glove (2024), but his consistent effort to be one of the best outfielders stands true for the Blue Jays. In 2025, his fielding value was in the 84th percentile per Baseball Savant. In 2024, that same value was in the 98th percentile.

As important as it is to sign a player like Tucker to help secure your outfield's future, the Blue Jays need to have contingency plans in place. That includes Varsho. If Toronto ends up signing Tucker, then having Varsho's bat by his side would be just as sweet for the Blue Jays.