The Toronto Blue Jays are actively searching for starting pitching options after falling short in their pursuit of Roki Sasaki, as reported by Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith. Although the team has primarily focused on bolstering their lineup with hitters this offseason, they are also exploring several prominent arms to enhance their rotation. Their list includes notable pitchers such as Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Blake Snell, Luis Severino, Nick Pivetta, and Jack Flaherty, with Pivetta and Flaherty remaining unsigned.

The Blue Jays have faced challenges in the past 14 months as they’ve consistently missed out on high-profile free agents, including Sasaki and Burnes. Currently, the Jays have a starting rotation of Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, Chris Bassitt, Bowden Francis, and Yariel Rodriguez. This group produced middle-of-the-road statistics when compared to other rotations, but they have been a reliable aspect of the team amidst the struggles of the batting order and bullpen.

Alek Manoah, who recently underwent Tommy John surgery, also pitched well in five starts prior to his operation and aims to return to the rotation by August. However, adding a substantial starting pitcher would not only deepen the rotation but also allow Rodriguez to transition to a relief role, strengthening the bullpen.

The big question remains whether the Blue Jays will pursue a premier starting pitcher like Flaherty, requiring a significant investment, or if they will consider a more budget-friendly back-end starter. The team’s willingness to spend is evident from their large offers for players like Burnes and Juan Soto. However, there’s uncertainty about General Manager Ross Atkins’ budget flexibility, particularly with key player contracts, such as Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s impending mega-contract, looming on the horizon.

Flaherty has shown interest in a short-term contract with opt-outs, which would still come at a hefty average annual cost. Meanwhile, Pivetta also seeks a significant salary and would cost the Jays international pool money and a top draft pick due to his decision to decline Boston's qualifying offer. The Jays might see more success pivoting to lesser-known pitchers or focusing on strengthening their offense with potential targets like Anthony Santander and Pete Alonso.

Offseason spending has already seen the Blue Jays invest $33 million over three years for reliever Jeff Hoffman. Additionally, the team took on a hefty contract from Andres Gimenez after acquiring the second baseman from the Guardians. They also absorbed Myles Straw’s contract in a recent trade with Cleveland, which has drawn criticism as a hasty move amidst their failed attempt to land Sasaki.

As the Blue Jays continue their search for starting pitching, fans await the next moves from a front office keen on enhancing both their rotation and offense, hoping to break away from the cycle of near-misses in the competitive free-agent market. Will they finally score a major signing, or will they opt for alternative routes to reshape their roster? The countdown to a pivotal season is just beginning.