Blue Jays land Anthony Santander on five-year contract worth more than $90 million

Anthony Santander, a top free-agent slugger, has signed a lucrative five-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, worth over $90 million. The contract includes a club option for a sixth year, potentially increasing the total value to $110 million. Santander has the option to opt out after the third year, which can be voided by the Blue Jays if they pick up the club option.

Despite missing out on several key players this offseason, the Blue Jays have finally secured a hitter in Santander. The outfielder, who hit a career-high 44 home runs for the Orioles in 2024, will bring power to Toronto’s lineup. Alongside Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez, Santander will bolster the team’s offensive capabilities. The Blue Jays have also strengthened their bullpen by signing relievers Yimi García and Jeff Hoffman.

Santander’s offensive prowess was highlighted by his 44 home runs in 2024, ranking him among the top sluggers in the league. While his defense may not be stellar, his hitting abilities make him a valuable addition to the Blue Jays. Our R.J. Anderson ranked Santander as the 15th-best free agent of the offseason, noting his impressive offensive production.

Santander’s switch-hitting skills and ability to make consistent contact set him apart as a quality player. While his defensive and baserunning abilities may not be his strong suit, interested clubs are banking on his offensive output remaining strong into his 30s.

Santander’s signing represents a strategic move for the Blue Jays, providing them with a cleanup hitter behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and adding power to a lineup that lacked home runs in 2025. With room for further additions to strengthen the team, Toronto is poised to make a run at a wild-card spot in the upcoming season.

Having rejected the qualifying offer from the Orioles, Santander’s signing will see the Blue Jays forfeit draft picks and international bonus money. However, the team’s investment in the slugger reflects their commitment to improving and competing in the AL.