"The Toronto Blue Jays have built on the momentum of their most successful season in over 30 years with a flashy start to their offseason, which quickly yielded three high-impact signings: pitchers Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Tyler Rogers. They also just signed Japanese third baseman Kazuma Okamoto according to several reports. But they aren't the only ones hoping to improve in 2026, and their division rivals have also been busy."
"In a limited sample size, the 33-year-old has mashed Blue Jays' pitching. Over seven games, Contreras has hit .440 (11-25) with three doubles, two home runs, seven RBI, and a 1.300 OPS. Obviously, those aren't sustainable numbers, but the three-time All-Star has excelled when facing Toronto and could be a thorn in their side for the next couple of years."
"The Baltimore Orioles were one of the most disappointing teams in the majors last season after winning over 100 games in 2023 and qualifying for the postseason in '24. Like the Blue Jays, the O's have attacked the offseason and have added considerable power to a lineup that produced zero 20-homer players last season. Outfielder Taylor Ward was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels for pitcher Grayson Rodriguez and gives the Orioles a potentially scary, slugging one-two punch with Alonso also joining the division rivals."
The Toronto Blue Jays added high-impact pitchers Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Tyler Rogers and reportedly signed Japanese third baseman Kazuma Okamoto. Division rivals also made significant additions that could alter the AL East landscape. The Boston Red Sox acquired Willson Contreras, who has performed exceptionally against Toronto in a small sample. The Baltimore Orioles acquired outfielder Taylor Ward from the Angels for Grayson Rodriguez, boosting a lineup that lacked 20-home-run hitters last season. These rival moves increase competition and raise concerns about the Blue Jays' ability to hold the division crown in 2026.
Read at Jays Journal
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