
Imago
Credit: IMAGO

Imago
Credit: IMAGO
The Toronto Blue Jays didn’t waste any time pretending everything was fine after their World Series collapse. Instead, they walked into the offseason like a team ready to rearrange the furniture with a sledgehammer. According to one insider, several postseason contributors are being shown the way out, and yes, that list includes familiar faces like Chris Bassitt and Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
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Ty France is not set to return to the Blue Jays camp
Ty France’s return to the Blue Jays feels uncertain despite a decent regular season. In 37 games for Toronto, he hit .277 with a .693 OPS — solid production for a late-season acquisition. When rosters were set for the Division Series, he was left off entirely, only to be added later for the World Series. That omission highlights how peripheral he was to Toronto’s October plans.
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Even though he’s useful, having France back doesn’t make a lot of strategic sense for 2026. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first base and other infield flexibility already on the roster, France’s role would likely remain limited. The team clearly leaned more heavily on its core everyday players when constructing the postseason roster. Investing in him long-term would compete with younger or more versatile options.
Finally, as the Blue Jays attempt to build on their World Series appearance and chase a title, they are unlikely to settle for a “good enough” bench piece. This season proved that they can win with high-end talent, so retaining France, while safe, may not advance their ambition. Improving every role, even backups, is now a priority for a franchise aiming higher.

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Source: Jim Rassol/The Associated Press
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Isiah Kiner-Falefa’s chances of return took a big hit after the World Series
Isiah Kiner-Falefa had a tough run with the Blue Jays in 2025; he hit just .262 with an OPS of .631 over 431 at-bats. Despite being claimed in August, he never secured a regular spot and was used sparingly down the stretch. He struggled when it mattered most, managing a .167 average and .427 OPS in his 30 postseason plate appearances.
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After the World Series, many in Toronto questioned whether Kiner-Falefa would suit up for the Jays again. Critics pointed out his baserunning blunder in Game 7, when he took a very conservative lead at third and got thrown out at home. Former bench coach Don Mattingly called the play out, saying everyone, including coaches, screwed up.
Compounding the situation, IKF revealed he received online threats after the loss, as fans blamed him for ending Toronto’s title hopes. Although he defended his decision, saying he followed the coaches’ orders to “stay close to the base,” that explanation hasn’t quelled the controversy. Given the backlash, his limited bat, and the high-stakes mistake, Toronto could decide to move on.
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Seranthony Dominguez is also set to say goodbye to Toronto
The Blue Jays acquired Seranthony Domínguez at the 2025 trade deadline, adding a hard-throwing veteran arm to bolster their late-inning bullpen. The move came in a doubleheader, as Toronto sent pitching prospect Juaron Watts-Brown to Baltimore in exchange. He was expected to bring stability, especially in high-leverage situations, as the Jays chased a deep October run. His addition signaled a real intent to upgrade the bullpen down the stretch.

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November 1, 2025, Toronto, On, Canada: Toronto Blue Jays Isiah Kiner-Falefa (7) is forced out at home plate by Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) during ninth inning Game 7 World Series playoff MLB, Baseball Herren, USA baseball action in Toronto on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Canada News – November 1, 2025 – ZUMAc35_ 20251101_zaf_c35_305 Copyright: xFrankxGunnx
In his time with Toronto, Domínguez appeared in 24 games and posted a 3.00 ERA over 21.0 innings, striking out 25. He delivered in October, too, working 3.1 scoreless innings and helping in key spots during the postseason. Despite his value, his walk rate raised concerns: he had 25 walks through those regular-season innings, according to his game log. That command issue surfaced visibly in a blown outing, where he failed to record an out and allowed five runs.
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With Domínguez headed to free agency, the Blue Jays face a crowded market of available relievers this offseason, including names like Robert Suárez and Raisel Iglesias. Toronto may explore a different arm that offers more control and similar high-leverage ability. The presence of such options could make re-signing Domínguez less compelling, given his walk issues. The front office will need to weigh his proven postseason mettle against the riskier command.
Max Scherzer is also a doubtful player for the Blue Jays in 2026
Max Scherzer’s 2025 season for the Blue Jays began with promise: he made 17 starts, pitched 85 innings, and went 5-5 with a 5.19 ERA. His performance faded late as lingering thumb issues and a back spasm altered his mechanics and effectiveness. Despite that, he rebounded in the postseason, delivering three starts and posting a 3.77 ERA across 14.1 innings. That October boost reminded fans how dangerous he still can be on the biggest stage.

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MLB, Baseball Herren, USA Playoffs-Toronto Blue Jays at Seattle Mariners Oct 16, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31) talks to manager John Schneider (14) in the fifth inning against the Seattle Mariners during game four of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Seattle T-Mobile Park Washington USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xKevinxNgx 20251016_jhp_cf9_0128
That one-year deal he signed was always a gamble given his age and health concerns at 41. He admitted he nearly retired in the spring because of perennial right-thumb inflammation that had plagued him for years. After his September struggles, some executives remain cautious, projecting he may only give 20 quality starts even at mid-3.00 ERA. The risk of declining velocity or injury makes his return far from guaranteed.
Looking forward, the Blue Jays likely need more dependable, season-long pitching rather than a short-burst veteran. They already have young righty Trey Yesavage, while other arms such as Dylan Cease and Ranger Suárez are reportedly available in free agency. Relying on a 41-year-old Scherzer for rotation depth may compromise consistency over a full campaign. With those options, a reunion with Scherzer appears increasingly improbable.
Chris Bassitt is also rumored to leave the Blue Jays
Chris Bassitt delivered a highly dependable season for the Blue Jays in 2025, making 31 starts and posting a 3.96 ERA while striking out 166 batters over 170.1 innings. His consistency carried into October, as he shifted to a relief role in the postseason and posted a sparkling 1.04 ERA in his appearances. That veteran presence and versatility gave Toronto a steady backbone through one of their most emotional playoff runs. Fans felt his leadership and reliability when it mattered most.
Still, they do not guarantee a return for Bassitt. He is now a free agent. With rotation depth looming, the Blue Jays are reportedly eyeing starters like Dylan Cease and Framber Valdez to fill future roles. While the market seems rich, no one would be surprised if Toronto re-signs him, given his past performance and connection with the team. His previous contract ($63 million over three years) and consistent output strengthen that case.

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MLB, Baseball Herren, USA World Series-Toronto Blue Jays at Los Angeles Dodgers Oct 28, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) pitches during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game four of the 2025 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Los Angeles Dodger Stadium California USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xKiyoshixMiox 20251028_bgd_ma1_091
Bassitt himself has made it clear he hopes to return to the Blue Jays. After the heartbreaking Game 7 loss, he said through tears he wants “another chance with this group.” The only barrier may be financial — both sides must agree on a deal that reflects his value and age. The front office will need to decide whether to invest in a steady veteran or pursue younger, higher-upside arms.
The Toronto Blue Jays now face an offseason demanding sharper choices than their emotional World Series aftermath. Let that reality settle while the front office weighs futures for Bassitt, France, and Kiner-Falefa. Only decisive moves will keep Toronto competitive, but sentimentality will not save struggling veterans.
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