TORONTO — The Toronto Blue Jays welcomed Anthony Santander to their lineup during a virtual press conference, where he sported a Blue Jays jersey with his name on it. This came shortly after he finalized an impressive five-year deal worth $92.5 million.
Santander, expressing his excitement, remarked, “Looks great on me already,” while discussing the contract, which also includes an opt-out clause and a team option for 2030 that could elevate the total value to $110 million.
Reflecting on his experience throughout the negotiation, the 30-year-old outfielder said, “The process was really good. Since day one, we’ve had really good communication, back and forth. I know it took a little bit longer, but we got what we wanted. We’re here. The process was really easy.”
Last season, Santander achieved a personal milestone as a first-time All-Star during his eighth year with the Baltimore Orioles. He finished the season hitting .235, while setting career benchmarks with 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, and 91 runs in 155 games.
Joining a lineup that potentially includes renowned players like George Springer, Bo Bichette, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Santander expressed enthusiasm about his new venture. “I’m happy for this opportunity,” he stated. “I can’t wait to be with my brothers. It starts on day one of spring training: work hard, get better every single day, and go after the championship. That’s what we’re looking for. That’s what I’m here for.”
Despite making playoffs as a wild card team in 2020, 2022, and 2023, the Blue Jays struggled last year, finishing last in the AL East with a 74-88 record.
General Manager Ross Atkins emphasized Santander’s fit in the team’s strategy, stating, “Anthony is about as good of a fit as we can find. Doing it from both sides of the plate, putting the ball in the seats regularly, and his ability to do damage on a nightly basis is exactly what we were looking for and a great addition to this lineup.”
A switch-hitter known for his power, Santander has averaged 35 home runs, 95 RBIs, and played 153 games over the last three seasons. His acquisition marks him as the first significant free agent signing for the Blue Jays this offseason.
Atkins chose not to comment on failed attempts to secure pitcher Roki Sasaki, who recently signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, nor on the prospects of a long-term deal with Guerrero, who will enter free agency after the 2025 World Series.
Manager John Schneider is expected to utilize Santander as a designated hitter, with plans for him to hit cleanup in the batting order. Santander himself noted, “Left field, right field, first base, DH — I’m really flexible with that. All that I want is to get ready to win games.”
