Uncovering Hidden Gems: Non-Tendered Players Who Could Transform the Blue Jays

As Major League Baseball’s offseason continues to unfold, the landscape is shifting, with a number of promising players becoming available after being non-tendered by their teams. These non-tendered players—who have not been offered contracts for the upcoming season—can often be overlooked in favor of more established names in free agency, but they represent an untapped pool of potential. For teams like the Toronto Blue Jays, the market of non-tendered players offers an opportunity to address key roster needs without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore which non-tendered players could be valuable additions to the Blue Jays roster and examine how these players could transform the team’s outlook for the 2024 season.

The Impact of the Non-Tender Process

The non-tender process occurs annually as teams decide whether to offer contracts to players eligible for arbitration. When a player is non-tendered, they are immediately available to sign with any team, creating a secondary free-agent market. While many non-tendered players are coming off disappointing seasons, others have been victims of payroll constraints, roster redundancy, or simply have not met their team’s strategic needs. For teams like the Blue Jays, who are looking to remain competitive in the AL East, these non-tendered players could offer high reward at a potentially lower cost than traditional free agents.

How the Blue Jays Could Benefit from Non-Tendered Players

As a team that has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the offseason, the Blue Jays could benefit significantly from adding non-tendered players. In particular, Toronto could look to bolster their pitching staff, strengthen their bench, or acquire a solid veteran presence to complement their young core. Let’s delve into specific categories of players that could help the Blue Jays reach the ultimate goal of a deep playoff run in 2024.

Pitching Reinforcements

One of the Blue Jays’ most pressing needs is to reinforce their pitching rotation and bullpen. After a season that saw some inconsistencies in their pitching staff, adding a non-tendered pitcher could provide both depth and upside. Below are a few players who could be of interest:

• Michael Kopech – The Chicago White Sox’s former top prospect struggled in 2023 but possesses electric stuff that could thrive under the right circumstances. Kopech’s velocity and strikeout potential make him a compelling risk for the Blue Jays, particularly in a bullpen role or as a high-leverage middle reliever.
• Rafael Montero – Non-tendered by the Houston Astros, Montero has been an inconsistent but capable reliever. He has a solid fastball and has flashed potential as a setup man. A change of scenery might be just what he needs to regain his form.
• Jose Urquidy – While Urquidy is coming off a year filled with injuries, his past performances suggest he could be a valuable back-end starter or swingman if healthy. With the Blue Jays in need of rotation depth, Urquidy represents a low-risk, high-reward option.

Adding Offensive Firepower

Despite having a potent lineup, the Blue Jays’ offense can be streaky at times. To deepen their lineup and increase their offensive flexibility, non-tendered players could provide significant value, especially in platoon roles or as versatile bench pieces. Here are some hitters worth considering:

• Hunter Renfroe – Known for his power, Renfroe could provide the Blue Jays with another right-handed bat capable of hitting home runs. After being non-tendered by the Los Angeles Angels, Renfroe’s ability to drive the ball and play in the corner outfield positions would add a layer of depth to Toronto’s offense.
• Domingo German – A utility infielder, German could add depth at second base, shortstop, or third base. While not a standout with the bat, his ability to play multiple positions makes him an asset on a roster in need of flexibility.
• Joey Gallo – Though Gallo’s batting average is often criticized, his power numbers remain impressive. A left-handed hitter with raw power, Gallo could provide the Blue Jays with an option to add a platoon bat to their outfield or even first base. A potential bounce-back season could pay off significantly.

Beyond the Box Score: The Broader Impact of Non-Tendered Players

Adding non-tendered players isn’t just about their on-field performance—there are other considerations that could benefit the Blue Jays as well. For instance, some non-tendered players bring with them valuable leadership qualities or the ability to mentor younger teammates. Veteran players who have experienced playoff races and deep postseason runs can offer crucial insights and guidance to a Blue Jays team poised to contend for championships in the years to come.

Additionally, non-tendered players often have something to prove. Many of them enter free agency motivated by the desire to secure a more lucrative, long-term contract in future years. As a result, they might bring a level of intensity and work ethic that boosts the overall culture of a team, creating a winning atmosphere that extends beyond the field of play.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While the non-tendered market offers great potential, it also comes with certain risks. The majority of non-tendered players have had their flaws exposed, whether due to injuries, inconsistent performance, or other issues. Teams that target non-tendered players must carefully evaluate not only their statistical performance but also their medical histories, locker room presence, and compatibility with the team’s playing style and culture.

For the Blue Jays, the ultimate goal will be to add players who can make a meaningful contribution in 2024 and beyond. It’s important to not only address immediate needs but also look at the long-term outlook. The team must balance the potential upside with the need for stability, especially when it comes to pitching and defensive positions.

Conclusion: A Strategic Approach to the Non-Tender Market

The non-tendered player market is often overlooked, but for a team like the Toronto Blue Jays, it presents a unique opportunity to address roster needs without overpaying. By carefully targeting players who possess untapped potential or are looking for a fresh start, the Blue Jays can bolster their roster for the upcoming season. Whether it’s through adding depth to the pitching staff, enhancing the lineup, or providing veterans who can contribute both on and off the field, these players could play a pivotal role in helping the Blue Jays return to postseason contention.

As the offseason progresses, the Blue Jays front office will have to continue evaluating potential acquisitions with an eye toward maximizing value. Adding a few non-tendered players could make all the difference in their ultimate pursuit of a World Series title. For more on the Blue Jays’ offseason strategy, check out our previous coverage of their free-agent pursuits.

For the latest updates on non-tendered players across the MLB, visit MLB News.

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