Anthony Santander DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

MLB.com's Keegan Matheson reports that Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander has been away from camp while sorting out visa issues. However, Santander will be back in Dunedin on Wednesday night and is expected to play in a Grapefruit League game on Friday, according to manager John Schneider. The Blue Jays' offseason acquisition initially reported to camp but then had to leave to take care of the visa issues. It should be all sorted out now, though. The 30-year-old adds plenty of pop to the heart of Toronto's batting order for the 2025 season after inking a five-year, $92.5 million deal in free agency in the offseason. The switch-hitter clubbed a career-high 44 home runs in his final season in Baltimore in 2024 and could be the Jays' primary designated hitter in his first season in Canada. Although some regression wouldn't be a surprise, Santander is a pretty good bet for 30-plus homers if he stays healthy.

Free-agent outfielder Anthony Santander agreed to a five-year deal worth at least $92.5 million guaranteed on Monday with the Toronto Blue Jays, according to a source. With an option involved in the deal, Santander has the potential to make $110 million. KPRC's Ari Alexander also reports that there is deferred money in the deal. Santander has an opt-out after the 2027 season that can be voided if a 2030 team option is exercised. It's the first big signing this offseason for Toronto and will give them a rising switch-hitting power bat to pair with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the middle of their lineup. The Venezuelan outfielder was a first-time All-Star in 2024 and hit .235/.308/.506 with an .814 OPS, a career-high 44 home runs and a career-high 102 RBI in 155 games with the Orioles. Although his power will play nicely in Toronto, fantasy managers may want to expect a slight step back in his power numbers in 2025.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Toronto Blue Jays are continuing their pursuit of free-agent outfielder Anthony Santander. Heyman noted that the team has made progress with their conversations. However, the Blue Jays have had positive discussions with free agents but have fallen short in several bids for the other top options, such as Juan Soto and Roki Sasaki. Heyman also reported that the Blue Jays are also eyeing Pete Alonso and potentially another pitcher. Last season, Santander launched a career-best 44 home runs with a .235/.308/.506 line. Under the hood, he boasted an 11.7% barrel rate and .445 xSLG, which were both significantly above the average marks. If Santander were to sign in Toronto, he would likely see most of his starts as a designated hitter.