Cleveland Indians: 5 most likely spots for Jay Bruce

Toronto Blue Jays

The Jays desperately need outfield help, but you’ve got to wonder how much money Mark Shapiro is green lighting for free agents this offseason.

After reaching the ALCS in 2016, the Jays were awful last season, finishing fourth in the AL East, going 75-86.

However, FanRag’s Jon Heyman reported that the Blue Jays have tried to acquire Bruce in the past, and that the organization will be a player for his services when free agency commences.

Herman thinks Jose Bautista could return to Toronto, as long as he doesn’t have outrageous contract demands, but TSN’s Scott Mitchell believes Joey Bats’ decade-long run above the border came to a close when GM Ross Atkins declined to pick up his $17 million option.

If that’s the case, Bruce would be ideal for Toronto and the perfect replacement for Bautista.

While the Blue Jays weren’t in contention during 2017, the organization doesn’t appear to be ready to blow it all up. According to Mitchell, the team would like to extend Josh Donaldson at third base.

If they’re going to commit that type of money to Donaldson, they’re going to have to supply him with some help, which means upgrading the outfield position via Bruce.

I think the Jays are a long shot, but none-the-less, a team to watch.