Anthony Santander’s career-best 44 home runs in 2024 put him in the spotlight, but as 2025 begins, the Venezuelan outfielder’s future remains undecided. With free agency in full swing, the former Baltimore Orioles star has drawn significant interest from multiple teams, with the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly leading the charge.
The Blue Jays’ Big Pitch: $82 Million Offer
According to Hector Gomez, Toronto has extended a four-year, $82 million offer to Santander, making them the frontrunners. The deal could bring Santander north of the border, bolstering a Blue Jays lineup that struggled in 2024, particularly in the outfield.
Baltimore remains in the mix, but their offseason moves suggest a cautious approach. Tyler O’Neill was brought in on a three-year, $49.5 million deal, and the Orioles added veteran pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano and catcher Gary Sanchez on one-year contracts. Despite these signings, the Orioles haven’t yet presented an offer competitive with Toronto’s.
For the Blue Jays, landing Santander would be a statement after missing out on other marquee outfielders like Juan Soto and Teoscar Hernández.
Toronto’s Offseason Strategy
The Blue Jays are coming off a disappointing 74-88 season, one marked by offensive inconsistencies. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entering their final year before free agency, Toronto is under pressure to make 2025 count.
Last season, the outfield trio of Davis Schneider, Daulton Varsho, and George Springer struggled, each recording an OPS under .700. Santander’s addition would provide much-needed power and flexibility.
- Santander’s potential arrival could shift Schneider into a utility role, optimizing the roster.
- His bat would complement Guerrero and add depth to a lineup that has lacked consistent power threats.
This strategy aligns with Toronto’s need to improve while keeping pace in the hyper-competitive AL East.
Baltimore’s Balancing Act
The Orioles, fresh off an 89-73 season, face a different challenge: building on their success while managing financial commitments. Santander’s departure would leave a significant gap in their offense, as his 155 career home runs and 435 RBIs are integral to Baltimore’s lineup.
Baltimore’s offseason additions suggest they may be preparing for life without Santander. Tyler O’Neill, a capable slugger, could help fill the void, but he lacks Santander’s durability and impact over the long term.
Meanwhile, fans are left wondering if the team’s cautious spending approach could backfire, especially as rivals like the Blue Jays and Yankees continue to load up on talent.
The Broader Free Agent Picture
Santander isn’t the only big name in the market.
- Juan Soto: Signed a historic 15-year, $765 million deal with the Mets, reshaping the free agent landscape.
- Teoscar Hernández: Joined the Dodgers on a three-year, $66 million deal.
- Andres Gimenez: Bolstered Toronto’s infield but didn’t address their outfield woes.
For teams still hunting for talent, Santander represents one of the last remaining impact bats available.
What’s Next for Santander?
At 30 years old, Santander has reached a critical juncture in his career. His prime years align perfectly with Toronto’s urgency to contend and Baltimore’s need to stay competitive.
If the Orioles hope to retain him, they’ll need to significantly up their offer to match or exceed Toronto’s. However, their focus on short-term deals this offseason hints at a reluctance to commit to a long-term deal for Santander.
On the other hand, if Santander chooses Toronto, it could signal a shift in AL East dynamics. His bat could rejuvenate the Blue Jays’ lineup while weakening a division rival in Baltimore.
For now, the baseball world waits, as Anthony Santander weighs his options in a market hungry for power hitters.
