The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off a memorable World Series run, are grappling with an unexpected pitching depth crisis even before spring training has officially commenced. What was once considered a robust roster strength has rapidly diminished due to a series of untimely injuries, casting a shadow over the team's early-season prospects.
Injury Woes Strike Early
News from the Jays' spring training facility in Dunedin has delivered a sobering blow to the organization's optimism. Anthony Santandar, a marquee free-agent acquisition from 2025, is expected to be sidelined for at least five months, dealing a significant setback to the team's offensive and defensive plans. Compounding the issue, promising young starter Bowden Francis has been ruled out for the entire season, while veteran Shane Bieber is facing health concerns that may delay his availability at the start of the year.
These developments have forced the Blue Jays to confront a harsh reality: their depth, which they had hoped to preserve for mid-season challenges, has been severely depleted before the first official pitch of training camp. Ideally, teams aim to maintain surplus talent to navigate the inevitable injuries that arise during the grueling MLB schedule, but Toronto finds itself in a precarious position much earlier than anticipated.
Chris Bassitt: A Viable Answer?
Amid this turmoil, a familiar face emerges as a potential lifeline. Chris Bassitt, who spent the past three seasons with the Blue Jays, is currently an unsigned free agent for the 2026 season. The 37-year-old right-hander established himself as a dependable innings-eater and a positive presence in the clubhouse during his tenure in Toronto.
Bassitt's return could immediately address some of the lost depth. Coming off a three-year, $63 million US contract, he is projected to be available for a one-year deal valued at just over $10 million—a relatively economical figure in today's inflated baseball market. However, his leverage may increase as injuries mount across the Majors, potentially driving up his asking price.
Competition for Bassitt's Services
The Blue Jays are not alone in their pursuit of pitching reinforcements. Several other contenders have expressed interest in Bassitt, complicating Toronto's efforts to secure his signature. The Atlanta Braves, for instance, are in need of a starter after placing young right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach on the 60-day injured reserve due to bone spurs in his elbow.
Similarly, the Baltimore Orioles have reportedly shown interest following the Detroit Tigers' acquisition of Framber Valdez, which left their rotation somewhat thin. The New York Yankees could also enter the fray, as both Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon are dealing with injuries that will sideline them at the season's outset.
Currently, the Blue Jays' starting rotation boasts six solid options, but adding Bassitt would provide a seventh arm and much-needed breathing room. His experience and consistency could prove invaluable as the team navigates the early challenges of the season.
As the Blue Jays regroup in Dunedin, the urgency to bolster their pitching staff is palpable. Whether they can successfully lure Chris Bassitt back to Toronto remains to be seen, but his potential acquisition represents a critical step in mitigating the impact of these early setbacks and maintaining their competitive edge in the American League.
