The Toronto Blue Jays are to decline right-handed pitcher Sergio Santos’ $6 million team option for 2015, as the team will pay the $750,000 buyout for the right-hander, according to Devan F. of CoverThoseBases and MLB Daily Rumors. Santos underperformed this season, posting a 8.57 ERA in 26 appearances for the Jays.
Toronto’s front office will be very busy this season, with 10 costless agents on the roster. Of these costless agents are outfielders Melky Cabrera and Colby Rasmus. Rumors say they will move Mark Buehrle. This will be difficult because of Buehrle’s $19 million contract for 2015. Other pitchers with contracts include pitchers Brandon Morrow, J.A. Happ, and Dustin McGowan.
The Blue Jays front office spent about $137 million in 2014. This offseason, the Jays have just about $95 million guaranteed to 8 players on the roster.
Other notables on the costless agent list are first baseman/designated hitter Adam Lind. Lind hit .321 for Toronto in 2014. First baseman Justin Smoak was picked up off waivers by the Blue Jays. Smoakhit just .202 this season, only appearing in 80 games.
The Blue Jays have their hands full. This could be a very different team come 2015. They look to make a playoff push after going 83-79 and finishing in 3rd place in the A.L. East. We will see what kind of deals Toronto makes to make a push next year.