Toronto Blue Jays looking to sign one of the best relief pitchers available in free agency

The Toronto Blue Jays are continuing to look at the free-agent market when it comes to improving their bullpen.

The bullpen was an area of concern for the team this past season, as a number of relievers underperformed, including Jeff Hoffman in the closer role.

Given Hoffman's struggles, the Blue Jays are believed to be in the market for a closer. GM Ross Atkins even confirmed at his end-of-season media availability that Hoffman is open to a different role in the bullpen should it be necessary.

The Blue Jays expressed interest in the likes of Ryan Helsley, Raisel Iglesias, and Phil Maton, only to see them sign elsewhere. Now, they've turned their attention to one of the best options still remaining, in Pete Fairbanks.

"With Ryan Helsley off the market, Pete Fairbanks might be the next closer to sign," reports Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. "The Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins are among the teams interested in him, according to industry sources briefed on his market."

Fairbanks became a solid closer for the Tampa Bay Rays in recent years, picking up a combined 75 saves over the past three seasons. He's coming off of a 2025 campaign that saw him post a 2.83 ERA along with 59 strikeouts in 60.1 innings. It marked the most innings the 31-year-old right hander has thrown in his MLB career.

Along with Fairbanks, it was also reported earlier in free agency that the Blue Jays were expressing interest in Edwin Diaz. That said, the three-time reliever of the year may be a bit to pricey for their liking. Fairbanks, while a very solid closer in his own right, will demand far less, with his total contract value likely being in the $20 million to $30 million range.