The Toronto Blue Jays have been one of the teams around Major League Baseball that insiders have expected to make a big splash in free agency this winter.
After a trip to the World Series came up one win short, Toronto is eyeing additions to the rotation, bullpen, and outfield, and is looking to re-sign Bo Bichette as well.
But their first move is a major one, and it’s coming in the starting rotation. Jon Heyman of The New York Post reports that the Blue Jays and starting pitcher Dylan Cease have agreed to a massive $210 million deal over seven seasons.
Blue Jays sign Dylan Cease to stunning seven-year, $210 million deal
“Breaking: Dylan Cease to Blue Jays. $210M, 7 years.” Heyman reported.
This is a massive contract for Cease, and it sets the starting pitcher market at a very high price. Cease is 29 years old, but will be 30 at the start of the 2026 MLB season.
He’s coming off his seventh season in the Majors, and his second with the San Diego Padres. Cease started 32 games for the Padres, throwing to a 4.55 ERA with an 8-12 record and 215 strikeouts across 168 innings pitched.
More: MLB insider reports Blue Jays ‘salivating’ at chance to sign All-Star 3.20 ERA starter
Once a top-five Cy Young candidate, Cease regressed a bit in 2025, struggling to limit the long ball, as he gave up a career-high 21 home runs with the Padres this last season.
He did have a strong start for the Padres in the playoffs, pitching 3.2 clean innings, allowing three hits and no runs while striking out five batters in the process.
This is a huge commitment from the Blue Jays, as they make their first big splash of the offseason, signing Cease to join their rotation alongside Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, Jose Berrios, and Eric Lauer.
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