MLB rumors: Blue Jays slapped with harsh Juan Soto reality by Ken Rosenthal

The 2024 season was a major letdown for the Toronto Blue Jays. After posting winning records in each of the past four years, the team fell to a disappointing 74-88 finish, placing them fifth in the AL East. This sharp decline makes their missed opportunities in free agency all the more painful, particularly when considering how securing a top target like Shohei Ohtani could have completely altered their fortunes.

Heading into 2025, the Blue Jays are eager to bounce back and re-enter the playoff race in the competitive AL East. Once again, they are setting their sights on a marquee-free agent: Juan Soto. However, according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the Blue Jays’ pursuit of Soto is facing significant hurdles, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding the team’s long-term roster.

One of the major concerns is the status of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is entering the final year of team control, and as of now, there’s no indication that an extension is imminent. This lack of clarity regarding Guerrero’s future with the club could be a turnoff for Soto, who, as Rosenthal points out, would likely hesitate to commit to a team facing such instability. While it’s still possible that the Blue Jays could land Soto if they present the most attractive financial offer, Rosenthal suggests that the uncertainty surrounding Guerrero’s future could make Toronto less appealing to the star outfielder.

If Guerrero departs, the Blue Jays would lack much in the way of top-end young talent waiting in the wings to step up, further complicating their pursuit of Soto. While Rosenthal’s analysis isn’t definitive, it certainly doesn’t paint a promising picture for Blue Jays fans hoping to see their team land another major free agent this offseason.

For the Blue Jays to return to contention in 2025, they will need several key players to have bounce-back seasons. Whether that’s from their existing core or through successful offseason moves, the team will have to make significant strides to get back in the mix in what looks to be another tough year in the AL East.