The Blue Jays competitive window is closing

While the Blue Jays did accomplish a number of goals such as acquiring a power bat, making over the bullpen, and adding to the rotation, they could still find themselves a very different team one year from now.

For starters, both Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remain unsigned heading into their walk years. While the Blue Jays have been hesitant to explore trades with either of them, if they are out of it by the All-Star break, it may be something they have to consider.

Second is the rotation. While Blue Jays pitchers have done a very good job of staying healthy, they are also relatively old by baseball standards, with number five starter Bowden Francis the only one under 30.

Yes, they have options at Triple A, but many others are recovering from injuries.

Also, many contracts will coming off the books in both 2025 and 2026. This is Chris Bassitt's last year under team control, and Kevin Gausman's contract is up at the end 2026; Jose Berrios also has an opt-out after that season as well. Max Scherzer is 40 and only signed for one year.

That could leave Bowden Francis as the last man standing, along with Alek Manoah, and many starters who have very little big league experience, if any. Not necessarily the most enviable place to be in.

Then there's Ross Atkins. The General Manager's contract is up after 2025 and perhaps no member of the Blue Jays is feeling the pressure more than he is. It is truly a make-or-break year for Atkins, as well as team president Mark Shapiro.

Spring Training begins February 12th.