Toronto Blue Jays: Why they should extend Marcus Stroman soon

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Why Jays fan base wants an extension

An extension for Stroman would be an important message from ownership to a fan base that has become accustomed to seeing marquee players walk away.

David Price in 2015, Edwin Encarnacion following 2016, and potentially Josh Donaldson after this season.

By signing Stroman to an extension, management could help reassure Jays fans they are not waving the white flag after this season. Even if Donaldson walks away, a lengthy deal demonstrates they plan to compete in the not too distant future.

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Stroman also has the potential to become one of the greatest Blue Jays’ starters of all-time.

At 37 wins, the Duke graduate is already ranked 21st in franchise history, tied with former ace Shaun Marcum. Only five pitchers have won more than 100 games as a Blue Jay, with Dave Stieb‘s 175 leading the way.

For a fanbase that has become accustomed to a revolving doors of aces, Stroman could provide the reliable, long-term ace the team has lacked since Roy Halladay was traded in 2009.

The Blue Jays will see much of their current crop of young players reach free agency after 2020 (Stroman, Aaron Sanchez, Roberto Osuna, Kevin Pillar, Devon Travis). The concern now, is can there be a meaningful crossover between the current core and the top prospects, led by Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, that should be arriving over the next couple years.

Signing Stroman to an extension would help bridge that gap.

Next: The burden of Troy Tulowitzki

Do you agree the Toronto Blue Jays need to offer Stroman a long-term deal soon? Or would you wait until at least after this season to explore an extension? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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