The Toronto Blue Jays have shown interest in free-agent pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, a source tells Metsmerized.
While no deal is imminent, the two sides have remained in contact and Tanaka is reportedly “intrigued” by Toronto’s recent signing of star center fielder George Springer.
Source: The Toronto Blue Jays have shown interest in free-agent pitcher Masahiro Tanaka.
While no deal is imminent, the two sides have remained in contact and Tanaka is reportedly "intrigued" by the Springer signing
— Pat Ragazzo (@ragazzoreport) January 24, 2021
According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the 32-year-old right-hander is seeking a one-year deal worth $15-20 million. As Martino also noted, a reunion between Tanaka and the New York Yankees seems unlikely.
The Yankees have continued to add to their rotation lately, signing veteran starter Corey Kluber to a one-year, $11 million contract and trading for right-hander Jameson Taillon, whom they acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The San Diego Padres are another team who have been speaking with Tanaka, but SNY says negotiations haven’t gone anywhere. The Padres have beefed up their rotation as well, adding Blake Snell, Yu Darvish, and Joe Musgrove.
Earlier this month, a source told MMO that teams were concerned about Tanaka’s physical. There have also been several rumors this offseason that Tanaka could return to play in Japan, where he began his professional career.
