Blue Jays Roundup, Oct 8: Blue Jays Arbitration Projections And Tender Decisions, Blue Jays Roster Retooling For 2027

[Jays Centre]

Here is some of the latest Blue Jays analysis from around the internet. The roundup covers arbitration projections for players like Ernie Clement and Louis Varland, key questions for 2027, offseason needs, Varland's 2026 impact, and the possibility of re-signing Kevin Gausman.

• Toronto Blue Jays Arbitration Projections and Tender Decisions (Just Baseball). Projects arbitration raises and tender decisions for Toronto Blue Jays players, using historical and current-class comparisons; Ernie Clement projected at $7.5M ($2.9M raise), Jose Soriano at $5.9M ($3M raise), Josh Smith at $3.725M ($500K raise), Bowden Francis at $925K, Spencer Arrighetti at $1.85M, Louis Varland at $3.2M, Nathan Lukes at $1.
• 3 key questions before Blue Jays retool roster for 2027 (MLB.com). Notes three key questions facing the Blue Jays as they prepare for 2027, including whether Guerrero can return to form, Clement's future role, and Santander's potential return to the outfield.
• The five biggest needs for Blue Jays this offseason (MLB.com). Argues the Blue Jays need to add offense, long-term outfield solutions, mid-rotation starters, middle-infield depth, and a bullpen setup option, citing their 2026 struggles with 648 runs and 152 home runs, weak free-agent market, and potential targets like Seiya Suzuki and Teruaki Sato.
• Louis Varland's blunt take on Blue Jays season: 'If you want to win games, pitch us' (Toronto Sun $$$). Notes Louis Varland's 2026 season, highlighting his 1.27 ERA, 35 saves, and role as the Blue Jays' dominant closer, while emphasizing the bullpen's impact on keeping the team competitive despite a weak offense.
• How seriously will Blue Jays look at bringing back Kevin Gausman to complete trade steal with Cubs? (Toronto Sun $$$). Notes the possibility of Kevin Gausman returning to the Blue Jays in free agency, highlighting his positive experience in Toronto, his leadership during the 2025 season, and the Jays' current focus on younger arms like Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce.