TORONTO -- The Blue Jays are fresh off of back-to-back appearances in the American League Championship Series. But with nine pending free agents, the club has a lot of work to do before similar expectations can be raised for 2017.
The good news, for a team with so much uncertainty, is that the pitching staff remains in good shape. Toronto will bring back all five members of its starting rotation, and there are some promising pieces in the bullpen, as well. No matter what happens this winter, pitching should remain a strength.
The challenge ahead lies in the everyday lineup, with Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion and Michael Saunders eligible for free agency.