After narrowly missing out on clinching their first World Series title in 32 years, the Toronto Blue Jays have turned their attention to the upcoming off-season. Here are 10 key discussion points for the team as they gear up for the 2026 season.

Bo Bichette, a standout player developed within the organization, is a prominent figure in this year’s group of free agents. Following a return from a knee sprain that sidelined him for seven weeks, Bichette transitioned from shortstop to second base. This adjustment could potentially be a strategic move for him, whether he stays with the Blue Jays or moves on to another team. Despite being less strong defensively, Bichette, aged 27, consistently ranks among the league leaders in hits when healthy. The Blue Jays, known for their willingness to make significant investments, face a decision on whether to pursue Bichette, who is expected to command a substantial contract in the nine-figure range.

Mark Shapiro, the team’s president, is in the final year of his contract and has expressed his desire to continue his tenure with the Blue Jays. Since joining the organization in 2015, Shapiro has played a key role in various major projects, including extensive renovations at Rogers Centre and the team’s player development facilities in Florida. Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins recently held end-of-season press conferences to discuss the team’s future direction.

The return of Shane Bieber for the 2026 season provides a significant boost to the Blue Jays’ starting rotation. Bieber opted to exercise his $16 million player option instead of exploring free agency. He will lead a rotation that features top pitchers such as Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, and potentially Eric Lauer. With veteran pitchers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt hitting free agency, the Blue Jays have options to bolster their starting lineup through free agency or trades.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the face of the franchise, showcased his superstar abilities during his first extended post-season appearance. Despite a strong regular season performance with a .292 average, 23 home runs, and 84 RBIs, Guerrero Jr.’s standout moments came during the playoffs. With his massive 14-year, $500 million extension set to kick in next year, Guerrero Jr. delivered impressive numbers in 18 playoff games, boasting a .397 average, 1.289 OPS, eight home runs, and 15 RBIs.

Jeff Hoffman, the team’s closer, faced both highs and lows during the regular season. While Hoffman secured 33 saves out of 40 opportunities, he also struggled with allowing 15 home runs, resulting in a 4.37 earned-run average. Despite a solid post-season performance, Hoffman’s Game 7 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers highlighted some challenges. Yimi Garcia emerges as a potential alternative option for the closer role if the Blue Jays opt for a change.

Rookie sensation Trey Yesavage’s remarkable rise through the minor leagues culminated in a standout performance at the major league level. Yesavage’s stellar pitching in Game 5 against the Dodgers, where he allowed only three hits over seven innings, showcased his potential as a key contributor to the Blue Jays’ rotation in the upcoming seasons.

During the World Series, the Blue Jays garnered significant viewership both domestically and internationally, with Game 7 attracting an average of 51 million viewers across Canada, the United States, and Japan. This marked the most-watched MLB game in 34 years, underscoring the team’s widespread popularity.

Despite reaching the World Series, slugger Anthony Santander, the team’s major off-season signing last winter, struggled to deliver his expected performance due to injuries. After hitting 44 home runs for Baltimore the previous season, Santander managed only six homers in 54 games for the Blue Jays, coupled with a .175 average. With four more years remaining on his $92.5 million contract, Santander faces challenges in regaining top form.

Manager John Schneider’s leadership in guiding the Blue Jays from a 74-win season to an East Division title has earned him a nomination for the American League Manager of the Year award. Alongside fellow finalists from Cleveland and Seattle, Schneider’s turnaround efforts will be recognized in the upcoming announcement.

Key dates for the Blue Jays include the start of their pre-season schedule on February 21 against the Philadelphia Phillies in Dunedin, Florida, and the 2026 regular season opener on March 26 against the Athletics at Rogers Centre.