Toronto Blue Jays Winter Moves: A Mixed Bag for 2024

As the Winter Meetings conclude, the Toronto Blue Jays have sparked a wave of buzz with their recent transactions, navigating a somewhat sluggish offseason.

Trade for Andrés Giménez and Nick Sandlin

The highlight of the Jays' activities has been the trade for Andrés Giménez and Nick Sandlin. Initially, I viewed this acquisition with skepticism, particularly given the depth the team already possesses in their middle infield. With a wealth of young, MLB-ready talent in that area, it seemed illogical to bolster it further.

What fans truly crave is a power-hitting outfielder or designated hitter, especially after witnessing an offense that often struggled to produce runs. Last season, the team faced the grim reality of being shut out on nine occasions and tallying just a single run in another 23 games. That accounts for a concerning 20% of the season where the offense failed to give the team a fighting chance.

Giménez, however, does present some positives. Despite initial reservations, his impressive defensive capabilities—he's known as one of the best relay throwers in baseball—cannot be overlooked. Over the past three years, he’s accumulated 16.7 bWAR and achieved Gold Glove status, a significant accomplishment for a player who only truly broke into the majors at 26.

Though I maintain that the trade seems somewhat unnecessary, there’s potential for growth, even if I wager he may never replicate his standout 2022 season. It's also worth noting that I wouldn't be surprised if Giménez surpasses Horwitz in WAR points over the next six seasons.

Nick Sandlin, a reliable bullpen arm, rounds out the trade, which could ultimately fare well for the Jays—if they can secure a powerful bat before the start of the new year. Fans may not riot (we are Canadian, after all), but a collective head shake at missed opportunities is a certainty.

Other Offseason Developments

Meanwhile, I stumbled upon a piece from Covering the Corners reflecting on Giménez’s 2024 season—definitely worth a read! Personally, I found great excitement watching him play. His defensive prowess was consistently remarkable, further solidifying his value to the roster.

In other offseason developments, BetMaryland.com reported that the Blue Jays have the second-best odds—18.2%—of acquiring Anthony Santander, an addition I would gladly welcome to complement their lineup. Meanwhile, discussions are also underway with Corbin Burnes, a pitcher who won’t aid in run production but would certainly bolster the rotation and provide fans with a reliable presence for years to come.

Lastly, the intriguing acquisition of Angel Bastardo via the Rule 5 draft adds another layer to the Jays’ strategy. His recovery from Tommy John surgery will sideline him for most of 2025, but if he can meet the necessary roster days following rehabilitation, the team will have longer to assess his potential as a useful MLB pitcher. With a skill set that includes throwing in the high 90s, he could be a diamond in the rough worth investing in.

Conclusion

As the offseason continues, Blue Jays fans are left hoping for strategic moves that add much-needed power and ignite a more formidable offensive presence in 2024.