Toronto Blue Jays linked to the best relief pitcher on free-agent market

Despite recently being linked to closer Pete Fairbanks, the Toronto Blue Jays may have their sights set even higher.

The Blue Jays have made it very clear that they are looking to continue on as World Series contenders, having already added two starting pitchers in Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce. With their starting rotation set, their next move may wind up being bringing in a closer.

There is no question that the best closer on the market this offseason is Edwin Diaz, who posted a dazzling 1.63 ERA with 28 saves for the New York Mets in 2025. Though the Mets remain in the mix to bring back the three-time Reliever of the Year, the Blue Jays are being viewed as a strong candidate to land him.

"They've got money," MLB insider Jon Heyman said of the Blue Jays on Bleacher Report. "They have the richest owner in the American League. Is he richer than [Mets owner] Steven Cohen? I don't know.

"Could that be a big battle with Diaz? Because certainly the Blue Jays are looking for a closer. Suarez, Diaz, those seem to be the best fits for the Jays, a team that can spend. Could be a battle between the Jays and the Mets for Diaz ... Blue Jays are continuing their spending spree. They started off big, and I think will continue."

The Blue Jays had hoped to address their closer situation last offseason when they signed Jeff Hoffman to a three-year, $33 million deal. The 32-year-old struggled at times in the role, however, and is reportedly open to moving into more of a set-up role out of the bullpen.

As for Diaz, he is reportedly seeking a five-year deal worth roughly $100 million. It's no small price to pay, but as Heyman said, the Blue Jays seem to have no issue when it comes to spending money, and the 31-year-old would undoubtedly make them a better ball club.