DUNEDIN, Fla. — General manager Ross Atkins says the Toronto Blue Jays are still looking to add to their infield.
Atkins spoke about the Blue Jays' next move on Tuesday afternoon after formally introducing pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, Toronto's latest free agent signing. Atkins believes the Blue Jays have "closed the gap" competitively but that he feels more can be done to stay competitive in the American League East.
"We want to make the team better," said Atkins on a practice field at the Blue Jays spring training facility in Dunedin, Fla. "I think the most obvious way to do that is in our infield and complementing it somehow."
Media reports say that Toronto has been in the running to sign free agents like Canadian first baseman Freddie Freeman or shortstop Carlos Correa. Freeman is a five-time National League all-star. Correa a two-time American League all-star and the 2015 AL rookie of the year.
Atkins said that how the infield help arrives could either be through free agency or by trade. But if it's an all-star calibre acquisition or a depth player remains to be seen.
"I think it's unlikely that we don't add another position player," said Atkins. "But is that someone that is every single day in your lineup? You know, we don't have to do that.
"I think it's unlikely that we don't add another position player."
The Blue Jays missed out on the 2021 post-season by a single game. The Tampa Bay Rays won the AL East division while the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees — both a single win ahead of Toronto — advanced as wild cards.
Atkins has been busy in the off-season, signing starting pitcher Jose Berrios to a seven-year contract extension, as well as adding free agents Kevin Gausman and Kikuchi to the rotation.
Despite that spending spree Atkins said he can add to Toronto's payroll.
"We need to be thoughtful about how we're thinking about today and tomorrow," said Atkins. "But we have the full support to (spend more) from our leadership."
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 15, 2022.
John Chidley-Hill, The Canadian Press
