3 reasons why this offseason feels different for the Blue Jays

"Offseasons were hardly kind to Toronto's front office when all of these players chose to sign elsewhere, even after a long period of persuasion. That hasn't stopped other big names from taking their talents to Toronto, such as George Springer, Dylan Cease, Kevin Gausman, and a host of others, but for the Blue Jays, this phenomenon evolved into a trope, effectively locking them into a perpetual runner-up status, while 'kicking the tires' on free agents became a running joke amongst the fanbase."

"Once considered an annoyance, rumours and speculations are now becoming exhilarating around Toronto. The 'Jays checking in on a player' or 'being in the running' doesn't seem so far-fetched anymore, mostly because their recent track record both on and off the field has given them a sort of swagger that not many teams have. Almost winning a World Series will do that, but having the money to spend and upgraded facilities are a nice touch."

"The club managed to get to the playoffs in 2020, 2022 and 2023 but got swept each time and continued to avoid postseason wins like it was going out of style. The 2024 season was the absolute rock bottom, with the team coming in last in the AL East. They were the embodiment of paper tigers, and no one expected Toronto to bounce back as their division rivals each bulked up and enhanced their rosters."

The Blue Jays repeatedly failed to sign top free agents such as Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, and Juan Soto, leaving the team empty-handed in recent years. Toronto did sign notable players like George Springer, Dylan Cease, and Kevin Gausman despite losing several marquee targets. The franchise acquired a reputation as a perpetual runner-up and as a club that only 'kicked the tires' on free agents. That narrative shifted this winter as rumours around the club became more credible. Recent on-field success, a near World Series appearance, financial willingness, upgraded facilities, and an aggressive front office helped change perception and improve the team.

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