Fans might be disappointed the team didn’t go after the “Big Three” starting pitchers this off season, but with the Jays offensive capabilities and the addition of two new starters, the big question is who will close out the games in Toronto as they look to win back-to-back AL East titles and if the latest rumors are correct, it could be a former All Star with plenty to prove in 2016.
Bleacher Report writer Joel Reuter has suggested the team could try and sign Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Joakim Soria. The 31-year-old was 3-1 last year splitting time with Detroit and Pittsburgh and his combined 24 saves and 2.53 ERA is just what Toronto needs, but a closer look and his role as setup man with the Pirates makes him a versatile pitcher that could work either the eighth or ninth innings in close ball games.
With nine years of MLB experience and 202 career saves, Soria is probably best suited as a closer. After a move to Pittsburgh that had the veteran move to a setup role, he could look to get back with a team that makes him a closer. His role last year will likely hurt his contract status, but that could help a team like Toronto, who is looking not to break the bank in free agency.
The Blue Jays aren’t the only team looking to add the right-hand reliever as reports of interest from Kansas City have also surfaced and with the latest frenzy of signings around the league, it could be a matter of which team steps up first and makes a solid offer and for Toronto, it could be the difference between making another run at the playoffs or floundering in the middle of the pack in the American League next season.
