Power Hitting Outfielder Coming Off of a 44 Homerun Season Signs with Blue Jays

Anthony Santander has reached an agreement with the Toronto Blue Jays to sign a five-year contract. This is quite a big move for Santander as he’ll be making 18 million or more per year. The Blue Jays were looking to add power this offseason and Santander will certainly be able to provide them with that, smashing 44 home runs in the 2024 season. Santander will be able to provide average defense in right field for Toronto or could provide quality at-bats as a designated hitter given his ability to switch-hit.

Coming off a monster year last year, Santander has secured a monster deal. Santander has proved he is worth the money, hitting 105 home runs in the past three seasons. This number ranks him sixth in Major League Baseball during that span. Santander also had the highest on-base percentage and slugging percentage of his career last year, excluding the shortened 2020 season. Additionally, durability does not look to be a problem for Santander, as he played in 155 of 162 games last season, the most games he has played in a season for his career. Although his average dipped slightly from previous seasons, 110 hits and 102 runs batted in is no joke. These numbers earned Santander his first all-star appearance in 2024 and propelled the Orioles to great success.

The acquisition of Santander absolutely provides Toronto with run production heading into the 2025 season. The Blue Jays hope that this big signing can take them to the next level on the offensive side of the ball. As for Santander, he will look to continue to establish himself as one of the better power hitters in the league. Additionally, if Santander is able to improve his average, strike-out percentage, and defense in the offseason he may turn out to be an amazing well-rounded player and a steal for the Blue Jays.