Ranking the Blue Jays pending free agents by likelihood of them re-signing

5. Brandon Belt

It has definitely been a whirlwind season for veteran Brandon Belt. After having one of his worst starts in his career since joining his new ballclub, Belt made the adjustments and drastically turned things around during the season, becoming the reliable and productive designated hitter that he was expected to be. Overall for 2023, he has compiled a stats line of .251/.369/.470/.839 along with 50 runs scored, 22 doubles, 16 home runs and 38 RBI.

However, he has recently ran into some injury woes by going on the 10-day IL with lumbar spine muscle spasms. Unfortunately, it occurred during the Jays’ most critical part of their schedule, and is currently still not back with the ballclub as of yet. In addition, he has also hinted about potential retirement recently in the news, so whether or not Belt wants to continue playing after this year could be the bigger question.

Belt has certainly done his part, bringing his veteran leadership and winning experience to the ballclub to help inspire the coming generation for the ballclub. However, at age 35 and with his body starting to act up recently, it could be a sign telling him that he may be approaching the end of his illustrious MLB career. Added to the fact that he is a great family man and intends to give more of his time to his family going forward, there is a high possibility that if Belt doesn’t come back during the upcoming weeks or so, we may have seen the last of Belt and his professional baseball career.

Verdict: Highly unlikely he re-signs.