The Blue Jays projected offer to free agent pitcher Kirby Yates have been announced
The former Texas Rangers reliever is coming off an incredible season where he put up 33 saves with a phenomenal 1.17 ERA which is why he should be at the top of the Blue Jays board in term of relievers.
"Kirby Yates finished 2024 with 33 saves and a stellar 1.17 ERA. With a 12.4 K/9, Kirby's fastball and splitter combo was elite, with hitters guessing all season," Brakebill said.
MLB insider Jon Heyman believes that Yates should be able to land a contract for around $28 million over two years which would pay him an average salary of $14 million per season.
Jon Heyman of the New York Post projects Yates for a two-year, $28 million contract, which might be a slight risk for a pitcher in his late 30s, but could pay huge dividends if he keeps up the production he had in 2024. And for Toronto, every risk is worth taking right now. -Roberts
While Atkins is not traditionally known for giving relief pitchers that type of money, Yates could definitely take on the role of the Blue Jays closer next season and would instantly improve their bullpen.
At a certain point the Blue Jays will have no choice but to start paying if they want to land top tier players because they cannot expect to sign the best free agents possible all on discounted deals.
If Atkins can land Burnes and Yates in the same off-season, the Blue Jays rotation and bullpen will definitely see a serious jump in the 2025 season.