The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move by signing outfielder Anthony Santander to a lucrative $92.5 million, five-year contract. The deal includes an opt-out clause and a team option for 2030 that could potentially raise the total value to $110 million over six seasons, as confirmed by his agency, the Beverly Hills Sports Council.
Prior to landing Santander, the Blue Jays had pursued other high-profile players like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, but ultimately secured the Venezuelan slugger to bolster their lineup alongside stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer. Toronto is aiming for a strong comeback after finishing last in the AL East with a 74-88 record in 2024.
Santander had a standout season with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024, achieving career highs with 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, and 91 runs scored in 155 games. He earned his first All-Star selection and became the first switch hitter since 2006 to hit 40 homers in a season. His performance helped the Orioles reach the playoffs for the second consecutive year, although they were swept in the opening round by the Kansas City Royals.
Having received a qualifying offer from Baltimore, the Orioles will gain a compensatory pick after the first round of the upcoming amateur draft. On the other hand, the Blue Jays will forfeit their second draft pick and $500,000 in international signing bonus allocation for 2026.
Santander, who originally signed with Cleveland as an international free agent in 2011, was acquired by the Orioles in the Rule 5 draft in 2016. Despite a slow start due to injury, he emerged as a key player for Baltimore in 2022, hitting 33 home runs and 89 RBIs. The following year, he contributed significantly to the Orioles' AL East title win with a .257 batting average, 28 homers, and 95 RBIs.
With this major signing, the Blue Jays are looking to strengthen their roster and compete at a higher level in the upcoming seasons, while Santander aims to continue his impressive performance and make a significant impact in Toronto's quest for success.
