Report: Jose Bautista Wants to Return to the Toronto Blue Jays
By Paul Taylor
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, Jose Bautista has turned down several solid offers because he wants to remain with the Toronto Blue Jays.
We’re the first to admit we’re as guilty as anyone of reporting every bit of speculation we hear and/or read about Jose Bautista. (At least this writer is.) However, it doesn’t change the fact the situation surrounding him has becoming one of the more fascinating subplots of the off-season.
In that respect, the latest news surrounding Bautista only adds to the intrigue. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, he has rejected several credible and solid offers from other teams, because he wants to return to the Toronto Blue Jays.
Morosi shared his information on Tuesday morning, while appearing on Sportsnet 590 The Fan’s “Dean Blundell and & Co.” For what it’s worth, he did not share which teams have apparently made a play for the six-time All-Star.
We already know that Bautista and general manager Ross Atkins have remained in contact since the 2016 season ended. However, what makes Morosi’s report more interesting, is that the Blue Jays have still not improved their original one-year qualifying offer of $17.2 million.
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When the offer was first put on the table, it was no surprise the 36-year old rejected it. After all, he was well within him rights to see what the market was for him, given how spectacular his production has been since 2010.
Unfortunately for Bautista — regardless of these several apparent solid offers — the demand has not been as great as he and his agent envisioned. Factors such as his age, recent injury issues and declining defensive production have all contributed to teams not making the substantial, multi-year offer he believes he is worth.
In turn, this has made the Blue Jays look smart for not offering that big, lucrative deal. And yet, this doesn’t change the fact they could still use the three-time Silver Slugger, to strengthen their roster.
As things currently project, the starting positions for the outfield will consist of Melvin Upton Junior, Kevin Pillar and Ezequiel Carrera. No matter how much Bautista’s defence may be declining, he still presents a better alternative to Upton or Carrera.
This is also the possibility the Dominican Republic native could provide some much-needed versatility. Some analysts suggest he would provide effective production at first base and as a DH.
Overall, as we’ve previously written, Bautista returning to the Blue Jays make perfect sense. Regardless, we wait to see how this situation will play out, with less than two months before players report to spring training.
Next: Should the Jays make a move for Travis Wood?
If Bautista does end up returning to Toronto, are you on board with this? Further, what type of commitment would you be prepared to make towards the six-time All Star? Share your thoughts in the comments section.