The Toronto Blue Jays are facing injury setbacks as they gear up for the new MLB season. Right-hander Erik Swanson is experiencing forearm fatigue, delaying his mound work, but he is expected to progress slowly through recovery. Manager John Schneider remains optimistic about Swanson's return, considering his previous elbow issues. Additionally, outfielder Daulton Varsho is likely to miss the start of the season following shoulder surgery. In the outfield, the Blue Jays must rely on contenders like Joey Loperfido and Nathan Lukes until Varsho returns.

In contrast to the injury woes, the Blue Jays' focus shifts to potential roster improvements. With Alex Bregman signing with the Boston Red Sox, the team may turn towards trades to enhance their lineup. Notably, the Jays' batting order will remain largely unchanged with Anthony Santander as their only significant offseason addition, although George Springer's leadoff spot is uncertain after a subpar 2024 season.

The Toronto Blue Jays, coming off a disappointing 74-88 season and a last-place finish in the American League East, face significant challenges as they head into the new season. Key players like Bo Bichette and George Springer struggled with injuries and performance, while the bullpen was among the worst in the league. However, concerns are rising regarding Erik Swanson, a prominent reliever, who is experiencing forearm fatigue and may not be ready for the season opener. Swanson's health is crucial, as he previously excelled with the Blue Jays after a successful run with the Mariners. The Jays have added depth to their bullpen with the signings of Yimi Garcia and Jeff Hoffman, but they will need Swanson to bounce back to improve their pitching staff.

To regain competitiveness in the AL East, the Blue Jays must ensure that their star players are healthy and effective. A successful season hinges on better performances from their bullpen and the overall health of their roster. With new additions and a focus on recovery, Toronto aims to turn around their fortunes in hopes of making a playoff push.

Jeff Hoffman has signed a three-year contract worth $33 million with the Toronto Blue Jays, returning to the team that drafted him. The right-handed reliever is expected to take on the closer role for the Jays after an impressive season with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he earned his first All-Star selection.

Despite interest from other teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves, Hoffman faced concerns over his shoulder from their medical staff, which he disputes, stating he feels healthy. His career statistics show steady improvement, making him a strong candidate for a pivotal role in Toronto’s bullpen.

The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully avoided salary arbitration with outfielder Daulton Varsho, who is set to earn $8.2 million in 2025, a notable increase from his $5.65 million for the previous year. This contract figure surpasses the initial projection of $7.7 million, reflecting Varsho's value to the team.

In the 2023 season, Varsho recorded a .214 batting average with a .700 OPS over 136 games, contributing 18 home runs, 58 RBI, and 10 stolen bases. His defensive prowess earned him a Gold Glove award, showcasing his skills with 28 defensive runs saved.

Despite his achievements, a shoulder injury required Varsho to undergo surgery last September, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming Spring Training. Since joining the Blue Jays from the Arizona Diamondbacks before the 2023 season, Varsho has had a career batting average of .225 and has established himself as a key player.

The Blue Jays also reached agreements with other players, including starting pitcher Alek Manoah and reliever Erik Swanson, while awaiting arbitration decisions for Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ernie Clement, and Alejandro Kirk.

The Toronto Blue Jays have made a significant trade, acquiring second baseman Andres Gimenez and reliever Nick Sandlin from the Cleveland Guardians. General manager Ross Atkins is optimistic about Gimenez's potential despite recent struggles at the plate, citing his elite defensive skills and previous offensive success.

The deal involved the Jays sending first baseman Spencer Horwitz and minor-league outfielder Nick Mitchell to Cleveland. Gimenez, under contract through 2029, is expected to bolster the Jays' infield as they continue to prioritize defensive capabilities.