Santander's Deal with Blue Jays: A Closer Look at the $92.5 Million Contract

Anthony Santander's 5-year, $92.5 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays includes $61.75 million in deferred money, according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal.

The Toronto Blue Jays' recent five-year, $92.5 million contract with Anthony Santander contains a significant amount of deferred money, according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal. The deal, which was officially announced, includes a whopping $61.75 million in deferred money. Additionally, the contract features a player option after the third year, allowing Santander to potentially opt out of the deal.

If Santander chooses to exercise his player option, the Blue Jays have the ability to void the contract by extending the deal to six years, $110 million. This provision provides the team with a level of flexibility and protection in case Santander decides to opt out. Santander's impressive performance last season, which included 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, and a .506 slugging percentage, made him one of the most sought-after power hitters in baseball.

Anthony Santander's deal with with the Blue Jays will have $61.75M deferred, per @Ken_Rosenthal pic.twitter.com/FGZQJl16qY

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) January 23, 2025

Santander's achievements last season earned him his first career Silver Slugger award and All-Star appearance. The eight-year veteran spent his entire career with the Baltimore Orioles, where he became a fan favorite. Following his departure from the Orioles, Santander posted an emotional thank-you video to the fans on his personal Instagram account. Now, he is set to bring his power-hitting skills to the Toronto Blue Jays, who ranked 26th in home runs and 20th in slugging percentage last season.

The Blue Jays are hoping that Santander's addition will help revitalize their lineup, which struggled to produce power last season. Toronto finished last in the AL East with a 74-88 record, while the Orioles finished second with a 91-71 record, just three games behind the New York Yankees for first place. With Santander on board, the Blue Jays are looking to improve their fortunes and make a push for the playoffs.