The Toronto Blue Jays are actively seeking to reinforce their bullpen for the 2026 season, with reports confirming the team has expressed interest in elite free-agent closer Edwin Díaz.
Jays Explore High-Profile Bullpen Addition
According to a report from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins met with the representatives for Edwin Díaz during the GM meetings in Las Vegas. This signals a potential significant investment for a team that came agonizingly close to a World Series title in 2025.
The move comes just days after Atkins addressed the media in a season-ending availability, where he indicated that the closer role would not automatically be handed to Jeff Hoffman for the upcoming season. Hoffman, who was stellar for much of the playoffs, surrendered a game-tying run to the Los Angeles Dodgers' Miguel Rojas when Toronto was just two outs away from a championship victory.
Why Edwin Díaz is a Coveted Free Agent
Díaz represents one of the most dominant relief pitchers available on the market. The three-time All-Star opted out of the final two years of his contract with the New York Mets, which would have paid him $38 million US. His decision follows an exceptional 2025 campaign where he recorded 28 saves and pitched to a spectacular 1.63 ERA with 98 strikeouts over 66.1 innings.
However, the Blue Jays are unlikely to be the only suitors. Given his proven track record as an elite closer, Díaz is expected to attract attention from multiple high-spending teams, which could drive up his price in a competitive free-agent market.
Blue Jays' Off-Season Strategy Takes Shape
While the bullpen is a clear area of focus, Atkins and his front office have other pressing needs to address. The starting rotation is a primary concern, with veterans Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer now free agents. There are also questions surrounding José Berríos, who dealt with performance inconsistencies and an elbow injury during the past season.
Atkins has built a reputation for being one of the more active general managers in Major League Baseball, thoroughly exploring all avenues to improve his roster. The interest in Díaz is a reflection of this due diligence, though it remains to be seen if Toronto will emerge as the frontrunner.
As for the incumbent, Jeff Hoffman, Atkins praised his team-first attitude. "The great thing about Jeff is he’s not married to (being the closer)," Atkins said. "He epitomizes that team approach. I think he would be open to anything that makes us better."
The real action in MLB free agency typically heats up in early December at the Winter Meetings, which are scheduled for Orlando, Florida. While the groundwork is being laid now, fans can expect the major transactions, including Díaz's eventual signing, to potentially unfold in the coming weeks or even stretch into the new year.
