Blake Snell’s stint with the San Francisco Giants may be short-lived. After signing a short-term deal with opt-outs last offseason, the star pitcher has exercised his opt-out clause and re-entered free agency. This time around, Snell is expected to secure a long-term contract, following a stellar second half in the 2024 season. Financial experts at Spotrac project Snell to sign a five-year deal worth $131 million.
However, FanSided’s Nick Villano doesn’t anticipate the Giants being in play for this lucrative contract. Instead, he predicts Snell will join the Toronto Blue Jays in the highly competitive American League East.
“Toronto’s offseason strategy seems focused on upgrading their pitching staff, and Snell’s prior experience in the AL East with the Tampa Bay Rays makes him a familiar option,” Villano explained. He also noted that other AL East teams, such as the Yankees, Red Sox, and Orioles, have shown varying degrees of interest in Snell. Ultimately, Villano believes the Blue Jays will outbid their rivals to land the ace.
Toronto’s need for elite pitching aligns well with Snell’s capabilities. Known for his ability to dominate opposing hitters, Snell would be a major asset in a division stacked with offensive firepower. While the Blue Jays have also been linked to Juan Soto, missing out on the slugger could push their focus toward securing Snell as a marquee addition. A move to Toronto could position Snell as a key piece in the Blue Jays’ bid to compete in one of baseball’s toughest divisions.