"And not just for next season, but two, three, four (you see where this is going) years from now, too. The current rotation for 2026 includes Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage, José Berríos and Eric Lauer. But there isn't much certainty in terms of dependable depth beyond that starting five, with the likes of Bowden Francis, Adam Macko, Lazaro Estrada and Easton Lucas already on Toronto's 40-man roster as options."
"This time next winter, the Blue Jays will have Gausman (entering final season of five-year, $110-million contract), Bieber (triggered 2026 player option worth $16 million) and Lauer all reaching free agency, and Berríos could join them if he decides to opt out of the final two seasons of his seven-year, $131-million extension. Not only does Toronto need to acquire a starting pitcher who'll bolster its staff in 2026,"
"There are a few top-of-the-market hurlers available in free agency who fit that description, like Dylan Cease and Ranger Suárez, both of whom will enter their age-30 seasons in '26. Japan's Tatsuya Imai, who'll turn 28 next May, would also align with the franchise's long-term competitive window. With immense salaries coming off the books after next season, the Blue Jays can afford to spend at the top"
The Blue Jays need to strengthen their starting rotation as a primary offseason priority, with an eye toward multi-year stability. The projected 2026 rotation currently lists Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage, José Berríos and Eric Lauer, but depth beyond that group lacks dependable upside. Several pitchers on the 40-man roster serve as fringe options, and multiple rotation pieces will reach free agency next winter or could opt out. The ideal target is a starter who improves 2026 performance and can join the long-term core, with free-agent arms like Dylan Cease, Ranger Suárez and Tatsuya Imai mentioned as fits.
Read at BlueJaysNation
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