15 worst Toronto Blue Jays free agent signings in franchise history

4. DH Frank Thomas - two years, $18M (2006-2007 offseason)

It’s understandable why the Blue Jays were interested in a slugger like Frank Thomas. “The Big Hurt” was one of the most fearsome sluggers of his time and was well on his way to the MLB Hall of Fame once he hung it up.

However, this contract was such a massive overpay, it’s a wonder why anyone thought it was a good idea to sign a 39-year-old to such a significant contract. Two years was a lot to begin with, but the amount of money Thomas was to be paid is what made it ridiculous.

Thomas’ first year in Toronto went well. He played in 155 games (his highest in seven years) and hit 30 doubles, 26 home runs and drove in 95 runs. His 125 OPS+ was the second-highest on the 2007 Jays behind Matt Stairs.

In 2008 at the age of 40, the wheels completely fell off for the player who once had can’t-miss at-bats. Making roughly $12.5M on the year, Thomas completely imploded at the plate, making it through just 16 games and 72 plate appearances before seeing his playing time begin to dwindle.

After hitting just .167 with a 72 OPS+, Thomas was benched and immediately went running to the press to express his distaste with the decision made by Blue Jays management.

Shortly after his outburst, the Blue Jays made the decision to release him from the team. 

Even though his first season in Toronto went well, it’s easy to label this signing as a dud. Thomas melted down in his second season and was paid entirely too much money for someone as old as he was.