Toronto Blue Jays: Why they should extend Marcus Stroman soon

Why extension would be good for Stroman

While talking about his arbitration hearing, Stroman said he was “extremely” interested in reaching a long-term deal:

"“I can’t express to you, honestly, how much I love the city of Toronto and how much I love the country of Canada. I know I’m not a Canadian citizen, but I truly feel like one,” he said. “I love this country. I do, and I want to be here. That’s it.” “I want to be here and I want to be here long-term. I just want to feel like I’m wanted here.”"

If Stroman and the Jays could reach an extension before next season, they would avoid two more years of arbitration. And it would also send a clear message to the pitcher that the team sees him as a franchise player.

He is set to become a free-agent at 28, an ideal age to seek a major contract, so a long-term deal would have to be worthwhile for Stroman, based on years and dollars.

But if the former first round pick is serious about wanting to stay in Toronto and becoming the face of the franchise, this could be his chance to really put his stamp on the team.