The Athletic names the Blue Jays as a potential landing spot for 10 free agents

The Blue Jays appears to be a favourable fit for many of the 2023-24 free agents

Los Angeles Angels v Oakland Athletics
Los Angeles Angels v Oakland Athletics | Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImages
2 of 3

The Offensive Options

OF Cody Bellinger

With the Jays having a desperate need of a power bat to round out their lineup, they were named as a potential fit for star outfielder Cody Bellinger. After suffering through a power outage in his previous three seasons, Bellinger bounced back in a big way in 2023 with the Chicago Cubs. He reverted back to some of his MVP-like form by belting 26 home runs and driving in 95 runs, along with maintaining a solid .307 batting average and stealing 20 bases in the process. He would be an ideal replacement for Kevin Kiermaier in center field if the Jays manage to reel him in, as recent rumors have shown that the Jays already have a strong interest in signing the former NL MVP.

1B/3B Jeimer Candelario

With the departure of Matt Chapman for the time being, infielder Jeimer Candelario was another candidate mentioned by The Athletic that would fit with the Jays. After all, he had a solid 2023 season in which he hit .251 with an .807 OPS, 22 home runs and 70 RBI. With the ability to play at both first and third base, he would be a suitable replacement for Chapman at third, while occasionally spelling Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first on days when he needed rest.

OF Jung-Hoo Lee

Surprisingly, the Jays were also named as a suitable landing spot for Korean star Jung-Hoo Lee. Lee has played his entire professional baseball career in the KBO League in South Korea where he has hit a stellar .340 with an .898 OPS, with 581 runs scored, 244 doubles, 43 triples, 65 home runs, 515 RBI and 69 stolen bases in 884 career games. He is looking to make the move to bring his game to MLB this season as he is expected to be posted by his KBO team Kiwoon Heroes. Lee is not known for his power, but he definitely knows how to hit, get on base and cash in runs consistently, which is exactly what the Jays need in their lineup. In addition, his career .992 fielding percentage showed that he could hold his own when manning the outfield as an everyday player.

Schedule