Blue Jays secure eye-watering Berrios extension

The MLB post-season is beginning to gain traction with players on the move and rumors circulating, though one event that is set in stone concerns the Toronto Blue Jays.

It has seen them tie down pitcher Jose Berrios to a seven-year deal worth a cool $131 million.

Narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season, the Blue Jays are keen to make up for that and by tying down Berrios who was one of their most influential performers last season, they are clearly planning for the long term.

 

Astute deal for the Blue Jays

Despite this being the third $100 million plus deal in the Blue Jays’ history, it still represents good business for them and adds significantly to what is already a talented team.

Incidentally, the highest in the side’s history was last off-season, when outfielder George Springer committed to a $150 million contract.

For Berrios, who signed for the Canadian side on last season’s deadline from the Minnesota Twins, this gives him a good opportunity as part of a great side to achieve success long term.

The Blue Jays, meanwhile, will no doubt get the best out of the 27-year-old as the Puerto Rican enters the peak of his career.

However, to some fans’ surprise Berrios did not have the Blue Jays on his radar, though was soon charmed by the city.

“I want to be honest with you guys — I never thought I would be here playing for the Toronto Blue Jays,” said Berrios at the time. “But when I had a chance to come to this beautiful city, this great team, it made me change my mind ….

“Everybody wants to reach (free agency),” he added later. “Me and my group were working on that. When I came here, the way they treated me, the skills they brought to me to be a better person, a better player, obviously better teammate, that changed my mind.”

 

Positive outlook

Clearly a franchise on the up, the Blue Jays have done well to fend off interest from other MLB sides and definitely have the potential to compete next season.

Berrios’ contract extension could soon be followed up by new deals for both Robbie Ray and second baseman Marcus Semien, though there may also be interest from other sides.