The Blue Jays came woefully close to a World Series title this year, so their only goal next year is to finish the job. However, a significant portion of that mission now revolves around the uncertainty surrounding Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette. With multiple teams chasing both players and Bichette already turning down Toronto’s qualifying offer, it’s hard to tell whether the Jays will be able to land either one.

That said, Bichette was a big contributor this season, and Tucker’s bat would be a huge boost. But the Jays’ real strength heading into 2026 is their core. And by locking up Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with a massive 14-year, $500 million extension, they sent a clear message about keeping that core intact. But wait, because they’re not done yet, and they just made another major move!!!

“Blue Jays confirm that all eligible players have been tendered contracts for the 2026 season. That includes arb-eligible guys like Daulton Varsho, Eric Lauer, Ernie Clement, and Tyler Heineman,” Toronto insider Mitch Bannon shared via X.

Yes, not one but the Blue Jays secured 4 arbitration-eligible players at once! They’re Daulton Varsho, Ernie Clement, Eric Lauer, and Tyler Heineman.

According to MLB Trade Rumors, Varsho is projected to secure around $9.7 million, Lauer at $4.4 million, Clement at $4.3 million, and Heineman at $1 million. However, with those tenders now in place, the Jays have until January 9 to negotiate deals with each of them.

Now, the big question, of course, is how each of these guys fits into Toronto’s 2026 vision…

Well, Clement certainly helped his case as he was a breakout performer in the 2025 postseason. He sets the record for most hits in a single postseason (30) and earns his second straight Gold Glove finalist nod at third base. Varsho chipped in 20 HRs in just 71 games, driving in 55 with a .238 average. Lauer posted a 3.18 ERA and proved to be a steady arm. And now that Scherzer’s gone, the Jays will be leaning on him even more.

So while the spotlight is on the big-name targets, the Jays are doing the smart thing! They’re building out real depth and keeping the support pieces in place. It’s the kind of foundation they’ll need if they want to take another serious run next year.

The Blue Jays seem to be working around Bichette and Tucker, also

Let’s not forget that the Blue Jays are still considered front-runners to land either Bichette or Tucker. But they’re clearly not putting all their eggs in one basket. For instance, Bichette turned down Toronto’s $22 million qualifying offer, and that’s opened the door for other possibilities.

ESPN’s Jorge Castillo even floated Pete Alonso as a potential fit for Toronto’s 2026 lineup.

Notably, Alonso has spent his entire seven-year career with the Mets, hitting .253 and smashing 264 HRs. So, he’d definitely bring the kind of power the Jays could use for another World Series run in 2026. Even though replacing Guerrero at first base wouldn’t be easy, Alonso’s name being in the mix shows the Jays aren’t locking themselves into one plan.

And the same goes for Kyle Tucker, as reportedly, Toronto is also in on Cody Bellinger if Tucker slips away.

If you remember, Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said, “We’ll use that disappointment as fuel for what comes next.” And they’re taking real steps to make that promise mean something.