- Blue Jays executives Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro outlined their off-season strategy, anticipating a business-as-usual November despite potential labour concerns and a possible December 1 lockout.
- With major contracts expiring (Springer, Bieber, Scherzer, and others), the Blue Jays have significant payroll flexibility and expect to maintain their ~$315 million spending level for 2027.
- The team plans to be ready for free-agent and trade negotiations from day one of the off-season, with October spent preparing for multiple possible outcomes.
- Despite potential new collective bargaining agreement rules (including possible salary cap discussions), any spending restrictions would likely be phased in over multiple years rather than implemented immediately.
- Big-name free agents like Tarik Skubal, Seiya Suzuki, and Brandon Lowe are expected to generate significant interest from the Blue Jays this winter.
- The Rule 5 Draft is anticipated to proceed as scheduled, requiring roster adjustments for players like Nolan Perry and Gage Stanifer.
Read the full story here: https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/how-blue-jays-execs-are-preparing-for-unusual-off-season/
