The Toronto Blue Jays were just one win away from claiming the 2025 World Series, but the Los Angeles Dodgers won two straight games to deny them the title. A controversial call in Game 6 could have swung the series in the Blue Jays’ favor, but instead, it may go down as one of the most debated calls in World Series history.
“The fact this is ruled a ‘lodged ball’ but then the CF has no problem picking it up and throwing it in is dumb. He didn’t even make an effort to grab it right away. Blue Jays might have gotten screwed,” Andress posted.
Since the World Series, the Blue Jays have had a productive offseason. They could continue building by adding Framber Valdez.
“Toronto clearly has money to spend, evidenced by its serious bid for Kyle Tucker. Whether the Blue Jays want to spend it on a pitcher remains to be seen, but with their current all-right-handed rotation, bringing in a proven left-hander could be appealing. Also of note: Gausman and Bieber are slated to become free agents next winter, so signing Valdez would help stabilize the rotation for 2027 and beyond,” MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand wrote.
Valdez was once projected to be the top starter on the market, but circumstances from last season have altered that perception.
“With his performance on the mound, Valdez was in line to be paid at the top of the market, and that’s a level of spending the Astros have rarely reached when it comes to older starting pitchers. What clouded his free agency is that he seemed to have intentionally crossed up his catcher, and if that wasn’t enough, he had a willingness over the summer to question Houston’s coaching staff,” CTH’s Jordan Campbell wrote.
The Blue Jays have a strong rotation but few left-handed options. Toronto is aiming to return to the World Series, and Valdez’s experience could be a major boost.
This season, the Blue Jays will be hungrier than ever. Their starting rotation could carry them deep into the postseason, and adding Valdez might prove to be the most impactful free-agent signing if it comes to fruition.
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