In the last few days, the Toronto Blue Jays have added $30 million to their 2023 payroll. Indeed, the signings of Chris Bassitt ($21 million per year) and Kevin Kiermaier have inflated the bill.
Because yes, it just came out: Kiermaier will receive nine million dollars in 2023.
This therefore increases the Blue Jays payroll to heights that have never been reached in the past. In fact, for the first time in their history, the Jays will have a payroll of at least $200 million. It’s inevitable at this point.
And another first could arise: executives could exceed the luxury tax.
The first level is located at $230 million and at this time, the estimated payroll is currently $233.5 million, which is above the limit.
This is not an official figure because it estimates the amounts players eligible for arbitration will receive and may change during the season.
That said, it’s likely to see the club above $230m. Why?
Because the Blue Jays have no plans to cut any guys right now, but also because the owners have said it’s possible to see the club pay the luxury tax in 2023.
And because the club has not finished adding. As I said yesterday, an outfielder could (should) definitely be acquired by GM Ross Atkins.
It takes more certainty within the attacking club.
And according to Ben Nicholson-Smith, the club are still looking to improve their mound. Management is looking for help in relief, but also in rotation – just in case.
A guy like Johnny Cueto is currently in the sights of the club.
So it shows that the club really wants to do what it takes to win. It won’t get to the point of the Yankees or the Mets, obviously, but the club will spend.
Will it yield results on the ground?
