After losing the World Series in seven games to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Toronto Blue Jays wasted no time in taking action to shore up their pitching. The Canadian franchise made the first big signing of the offseason by signing right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal, making him one of the strongest investments of this stage of the market.
Cease, who will turn 30 on December 28, was considered one of the most sought-after arms among free agents. His arrival is intended to give Toronto the No. 2 starter they needed to back up Kevin Gausman, the ace of the rotation.
Cease comes off an inconsistent year, but responded in playoffs
Although Cease had one of the worst seasons of his career in 2025, he ended up being key when he was needed most. With the San Diego Padres, he went 8-12 with a 4.55 ERA in 32 starts, striking out 215 in 168 innings.
However, in the wild-card round he shone, pitching 3.2 scoreless innings and striking out five Cubs batters. That postseason performance reinforced his value as a starter capable of elevating his level in pressure situations.
Toronto strengthens its starting rotation to compete again
The Blue Jays are determined to return to the World Series, and the signing of Cease fits into that plan. The team finished 2025 with the 20th best starter ERA (4.34), so bolstering that department was a priority.
With Cease, Toronto projects a deeper and more balanced rotation:
- Kevin Gausman (RHP): 10-11, 3.59 ERA
- Dylan Cease (RHP): 8-12, 4.55 ERA
- Shane Bieber (RHP): 4-2, 3.57 ERA
- Trey Yesavage (RHP): 3-1, 3.58 ERA in postseason
In addition, the Blue Jays had the best offense in baseball in 2025, with a collective average of .265 and an OPS of .761, driven by their star Vladimir Guerrero Jr.. With an established lineup, bolstering the rotation was the logical step.
What’s next? Toronto could still look for a lefty
Despite the big move, Toronto’s rotation remains predominantly right-handed. While left-hander Eric Lauer is available on the roster, he has worked primarily as a reliever, so the team could consider adding another left-handed starter.
Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez still stand out in the market, although their prices could push the Blue Jays to explore a trade rather than another expensive signing.
With Cease secured, Toronto sends a clear message: the title hunt continues.
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