Imagine coming agonizingly close to baseball's ultimate prize, only to have it slip through your fingers in the final moments. That's exactly what happened to the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025, falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a heart-wrenching seven-game World Series. But here's where it gets interesting: despite the devastating loss, one Blue Jays star is poised to cash in big time.
The Blue Jays pushed the reigning champions to the brink, leading Game 7 until the ninth inning before ultimately losing in 11. It was a series that showcased Toronto's grit and talent, solidifying their place as a legitimate MLB powerhouse. Yet, there's no time to dwell on what could have been. The offseason is already in full swing, and the Blue Jays face a daunting challenge: six key players, including fan favorites, have hit free agency.
Among them is shortstop Bo Bichette, undoubtedly the team's biggest free agent, expected to command a massive, six-figure contract. But another player's future is equally intriguing: right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt. After a stellar 2025 season, Bassitt made his intentions clear in an emotional post-game interview, his voice cracking as he expressed his desire to return to Toronto.
"I hope I have another chance with this group, I really do," Bassitt said, fighting back tears. "I love these guys. But you just never know. I’d love to have another shot with this team."
Bassitt's performance speaks for itself. He posted a solid 3.96 ERA over 170.1 innings during the regular season, but it was his postseason dominance that truly impressed. As a reliever, he delivered a jaw-dropping 1.04 ERA across 8.2 innings. And this is the part most people miss: such performances don't come cheap. According to The Athletic's Tim Britton, Bassitt is in line for a lucrative two-year, $46 million contract, mirroring the deal Seth Lugo signed with the Kansas City Royals.
Britton draws a compelling comparison between Bassitt and Lugo, noting that while Lugo was coming off a Cy Young runner-up season, Bassitt's recent performance arguably puts him in the same ballpark. "Kelly and Bassitt are coming off better seasons than Lugo," Britton wrote, referring to fellow free agent Merrill Kelly. "That just about evens it out, and I’d expect them to be right in the neighborhood of Lugo’s deal."
For Bassitt, entering his age-37 season, this contract makes perfect sense. As for the Blue Jays, retaining him would be a priority after his three successful years with the team.
But here's the controversial question: Is a $46 million investment in a 37-year-old pitcher a wise move for Toronto, especially with other roster holes to fill? Or is Bassitt's experience and postseason prowess worth every penny?
What do you think? Is Bassitt worth the price tag, or should the Blue Jays look elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below!
