As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for the upcoming MLB season, one area they may look to strengthen is their pitching staff. After a solid season last year, the Blue Jays have their sights set on making a strong run for the playoffs. One way they could achieve this is by re-signing veteran pitcher Chris Bassitt in free agency.
Bassitt, who played for the Blue Jays from 2011 to 2014, has established himself as a reliable and effective pitcher over the years. In his last two seasons with the Oakland Athletics, he recorded an impressive 3.60 ERA, with a career-high 157 strikeouts in 2020. His experience and skill set make him an attractive option for teams in need of a reliable arm in their rotation.
With the departure of veteran pitchers like Taijuan Walker and Matt Shoemaker, the Blue Jays may have a void to fill in their starting rotation. While the team has promising young arms like Nate Pearson and Ross Stripling, adding a veteran like Bassitt could provide valuable depth and leadership to the pitching staff.
But it’s not just Bassitt’s on-field performance that makes him an appealing option for the Blue Jays. He also brings a strong work ethic and winning mentality to the team. In a recent interview, Bassitt spoke about his desire to “win rings” and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team succeed.
This attitude aligns perfectly with the Blue Jays’ current mindset. With a talented core of young players, including Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, the team is hungry for success and looking for experienced players to help lead the way. Bassitt, who has been part of winning teams in the past, could be just the player to mentor and guide the Blue Jays’ rising stars.
Moreover, bringing Bassitt back to Toronto would also provide a sense of familiarity for the pitcher. Having spent four years with the organization, he is well-acquainted with the city, the team’s culture, and the fanbase. This could make for a smooth transition and allow him to quickly settle into his role with the team.
Another factor to consider is Bassitt’s reasonable price tag. While some of the top free agent pitchers come with a hefty price, Bassitt’s market value could be more manageable for the Blue Jays. This could give the team more flexibility to make other moves and address other needs in the offseason.
In addition to his impressive on-field performance, Bassitt also brings a positive and supportive presence in the clubhouse. His former teammates have spoken highly of his character and leadership, highlighting his ability to bring the team together and create a winning atmosphere.
The Blue Jays are currently in a competitive division, with teams like the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays standing in their way. To make a strong push for the playoffs, they will need a well-rounded and experienced pitching staff. Re-signing Bassitt would be a step in the right direction and could potentially put the Blue Jays in a better position to compete with their division rivals.
Of course, there will always be some risks when signing a free agent, but in the case of Chris Bassitt, the potential reward seems to outweigh any concerns. With his proven track record and positive attributes, he could be the missing piece that the Blue Jays need to make a deep postseason run.
In conclusion, bringing back Chris Bassitt to the Toronto Blue Jays would not only bolster their pitching staff but also provide valuable leadership and experience to a young and talented team. His skill, work ethic, and winning mentality make him a perfect fit for the organization. As the Blue Jays aim to make their mark in the 2021 season, re-signing Bassitt could be a crucial move in achieving their goals and bringing a championship to Toronto.
