It sure sounds like there should be a new free agent ace on the Blue Jays’ radar

In recent times, it was learned that the Toronto Blue Jays were also interested in starting pitching help this offseason. Names such as Max Fried and even old friend Yusei Kikuchi were thrown around as potential targets for the Jays. But if Toronto is really looking into getting an impact arm to add to their rotation for 2025, they should actually aim big in getting someone that will be a guaranteed difference maker.

If that is the case, then former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes should absolutely, 100 percent, be on the Jays’ radar in this free agency season. Since Toronto is already willing to go after the top No.1 free agent option this 2024-25 offseason in Juan Soto, why not have the No. 2 option in Burnes in the mix as well?

It sure sounds like Corbin Burnes should be on the Blue Jays’ radar

After all, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com has listed the Blue Jays as one of six potential suitors for the four-time All-Star. Feinsand would further explain that since Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette and Chris Bassitt will all be headed into free agency following the 2025 MLB season, barring any extensions, the Jays may want to make the most of it with a huge addition to their roster. In addition, by adding a bonafide ace like Burnes, it would push Kevin Gausman and the rest of the rotation back a rung, make their starting five that much stronger and fearsome.

Just taking a look at the accomplishments of the 30-year-old right-hander in the past four seasons, he has impressively posted double-digit wins along with an ERA below 3.40 and WHIP below 1.10 each year during that time frame. Together with a minimum of 28 starts per season since 2021, Burnes proved to be as durable and consistently dominant as one could get. Last year, he managed to survive life in his first season being in vaunted AL East by posting a solid 15-9 record with a 2.92 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, along with 181 strikeouts in 194 1/3 innings pitched over 32 starts with the Baltimore Orioles. Now that he has adapted to his new league environment already flawlessly, it is time for the Jays take full advantage of that.

So forget about Fried, Kikuchi, whoever else; as Burnes is the one that they should pursue. He would also be a great backup plan if the Jays were to miss out on Soto. But if the Jays somehow manage to do the impossible and land both Soto and Burnes this offseason to join Guerrero, Bichette, Gausman and company, let’s just say there would be a newly favorite in the American League East.