The Toronto Blue Jays have slowed their pace in MLB free agency as spring training draws near. In early January, the club made a splash by signing Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto to a four-year, $60 million contract.
Initially expected to take over third base, the team has since indicated Okamoto will be used more in a utility role as he transitions into MLB.
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Toronto’s front office kept its focus on adding another everyday bat to strengthen the lineup around first basemanVladimir Guerrero Jr. and designated hitter George Springer.
But in the weeks following the Okamoto signing, the Blue Jays have watched several of their targets land elsewhere.
Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider (14)© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
(© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images)
Third baseman Alex Bregman joined the Chicago Cubs, outfielder Kyle Tucker signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and homegrown All-Star Bo Bichette departed for Queens to join the New York Mets.
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That sequence of moves left Toronto scrambling, still in need of a reliable everyday player, particularly at the hot corner. On Wednesday, the team received another setback.
According to MLB reporter Francys Romero, the Blue Jays had interest in third baseman Yoan Moncada, but Moncada chose to rejoin the Los Angeles Angels on a one-year, $4 million deal.
The decision underscores the challenges Toronto faces in filling out its roster. With Okamoto slotted into a flexible role and several top-tier names off the market, the Blue Jays must now look elsewhere to find the kind of impact bat that can stabilize their infield and keep pace in a competitive American League.
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Blue Jays Miss Out on Yoan Moncada, Infield Questions Remain
Fresh off coming one win short of capturing its first World Series title since 1993, Toronto still reinforced the club this offseason. Yet with Bichette gone and Okamoto as the lone replacement, the offense could take a step back in 2026.
Moncada could have provided the Blue Jays with a stabilizing presence at third base. Although he missed significant time with injury and only played in 84 games, he remained a productive hitter.
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The 30-year-old former top prospect posted a .234 batting average, .336 on-base percentage, .783 OPS, 12 home runs and 35 RBIs — numbers that would have added depth and balance to Toronto’s lineup.
Instead, the Blue Jays must pivot once again, searching for answers at a position that remains unsettled. Moncada’s decision leaves Toronto still hunting for the kind of everyday bat that can stabilize the infield heading into 2026.
Related: MLB Shares George Springer Honor Ahead of 6th Season With Blue Jays
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.