From 2019 to 2021, the Blue Jays improved by 24 wins. They scored 120 more runs (846 – 3rd), and their pitchers allowed 145 fewer runs (10th in ERA – 3.91). However, their growth still led to them missing the postseason by one game. Toronto only made the postseason three times over the previous 27 seasons. They led the majors in home runs (262) and finished 12th in steals (81). The Blue Jays were league average in bullpen ERA (4.08 – 16th), with 30 wins, 31 losses, and 34 saves. Their two World Series titles came in 1992 and 1993.
Toronto lost two star players (2B Marcus Semien and SP Robbie Ray) to free agency. SP Steven Matz signed with the Cardinals, and the Braves took a flier on RP Kirby Yates. They revamped their starting rotation by adding SP Kevin Gausman while re-signing SP Jose Berrios to a seven-year contract ($131 million). The only other meaningful player added was RP Yimi Garcia.
The Blue Jays have an excellent young foundation to their offense, highlighted by a ton of power. Toronto needs 2B Cavan Biggio to play well to help cover the loss of 2B Marcus Semien. C Alejandro Kirk should seize the starting catching job.
