Heartbreak in Toronto! The Blue Jays fought tooth and nail, but after a grueling seven-game World Series battle, they fell just short against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The sting of defeat is fresh, especially after leading Game 7 late, only to see the Dodgers snatch victory in the 11th inning. It was a series that truly showcased Toronto's emergence as a genuine MLB powerhouse. But here's the harsh reality: baseball waits for no one.
The offseason is already in full swing, and the Blue Jays are facing significant challenges. A staggering six key players have entered free agency, leaving some major gaps to fill. (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/blue-jays-lose-6-players-to-free-agency-after-falling-short-in-world-series-10981289) You can read more about that exodus here: Blue Jays Lose 6 Players to Free Agency After Falling Short in World Series (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/blue-jays-lose-6-players-to-free-agency-after-falling-short-in-world-series-10981289)
While shortstop sensation Bo Bichette (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/blue-jays-bo-bichette-declares-free-agency-desires-after-world-series-loss-10977765) is undoubtedly the headliner of their free-agent class, commanding what is expected to be a massive contract, another key player's future hangs in the balance: right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt. And this is the part most people miss... Bassitt isn't just any pitcher; he's a veteran leader who has openly expressed his desire to stay in Toronto. (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/blue-jays-veteran-declares-free-agency-intentions-after-world-series-loss-10984785)
"I hope I have another chance with this group, I really do," Bassitt emotionally shared in the clubhouse after the devastating Game 7 loss, fighting back tears. "I love this group, I love these guys. But you just never know. But I would love to have another shot with this group." (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/blue-jays-veteran-declares-free-agency-intentions-after-world-series-loss-10984785)
Bassitt's heartfelt plea raises a crucial question: Can the Blue Jays afford to lose both on-field talent and clubhouse leadership? But here's where it gets controversial... some analysts argue that sentimentality shouldn't factor into roster decisions. Baseball is a business, after all.
Regardless, after a stellar 2025 season, Bassitt's services won't come cheap. He posted a solid 3.96 ERA over 170.1 innings during the regular season. More impressively, he transformed into a dominant reliever in the postseason, boasting an incredible 1.04 ERA across 8.2 innings. According to Tim Britton of The Athletic (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6774254/2025/11/04/mlb-free-agent-contract-projections/?utmmedium=social&utmcampaign=mlbtw&source=mlbtw), Bassitt is projected to land a two-year, $46 million contract. Britton even draws a parallel to another pitcher's deal.
Britton wrote that the two-year, $46 million extension that Seth Lugo signed with the Kansas City Royals over the summer sets a nice bar for veterans such as Kelly and Bassitt who are in the short-term market. He also stated that Kelly and Bassitt are coming off better seasons than Lugo, though Lugo was one year removed from a Cy Young runner-up finish. That just about evens it out, and he would expect Kelly and Bassitt to be right in the neighborhood of Lugo’s deal.
This type of short-term, high-value contract makes a lot of sense for Bassitt, who will be entering his age-37 season. It provides him with financial security while allowing him to potentially re-enter free agency in a couple of years. As for the Blue Jays, they'll undoubtedly have the first opportunity to negotiate a return with Bassitt, given his three-year tenure with the organization. Will they prioritize his experience and leadership, or will they opt for a younger, potentially cheaper option? Only time will tell.
More news: Magic Johnson Sends Message to Blue Jays Fans After Dodgers World Series Win (https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/magic-johnson-sends-message-to-blue-jays-fans-after-dodgers-world-series-win-10985780)
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Now it's your turn! Do you think the Blue Jays should prioritize re-signing Chris Bassitt, even at $46 million? Or should they focus on younger talent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
