The Toronto Blue Jays finished in last place in the American League even though Vladimir Guerrero Jr. produced an excellent campaign on an individual level. Meanwhile, Bo Bichette had a shockingly poor season, as he struggled with his health and a lack of production at the plate, while the Blue Jays are reportedly sizing up a long-term contract for free agent outfielder Anthony Santander.
Former Minnesota Twins third baseman Trevor Ploffue believes the addition of Anthony Santander would be a good addition for the upcoming season. However, he feels the move doesn't make much sense for the team in the long run, as the Blue Jays are unsure about the futures of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
Trevor Plouffe, on the Baseball Today podcast from Jomboy Media, gave his views on the Blue Jays pursuing Anthony Santander on Monday.
"I don't think a long-term deal makes sense," Plouffe said. "I like him on the team, and that's only if they keep Vladdy and Bichette throughout the year.
"Let's just say they bring him in," he continued. "He signs a one-year deal with the Blue Jays. I'd love that. This makes a ton of sense. I don't think they're keeping either of (Gurerrero Jr. and Bichette). So, all of a sudden, this long-term deal turns into what? I'd love it for this year is what I'm saying."
As things stand, Guerrero Jr. and Bichette are heading into their final season of club control and will become free agents at the end of the year.
"They need to some other offensive player to go along": Trevor Plouffe feels Blue Jays lineup needs more than Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, Anthony Santander
Trevor Plouffe believes Anthony Santander would be a good addition to the Toronto Blue Jays roster alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
Nevertheless, he believes they need to strengthen their lineup more to compete for a playoff spot from the American League East.
"They need to some other offensive player to go along with those guys," he said. "Look at that lineup right now. It looks very strange. Doesn't look like a lineup that's going to compete in the AL East or the AL."
The Blue Jays started the 2024 campaign with plenty of optimism but eventually ended 20 games behind the division winners, with a 74-88 record.