Blue Jays Emerging as Potential Frontrunner for Free Agent Pitcher Pete Fairbanks
TORONTO – The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly showing significant interest in free agent reliever Pete Fairbanks, formerly of the Tampa Bay Rays, according to sources.Fairbanks, a high-leverage arm, is generating significant interest on the open market and is highly likely to secure a multi-year deal, leaving the Rays to perhaps watch him join a division rival.
The Rays’ decision not to exercise Fairbanks’ option after a strong 2025 season has been widely considered a surprising move, particularly in light of recent contracts awarded to comparable relievers like Keynan Helsley. While Jeff Hoffman served as a solid closer for Tampa Bay in 2025, inconsistencies existed, creating a need for bullpen reinforcement – a need the Blue Jays could address with Fairbanks.
Fairbanks would provide manager John Schneider with another reliable option at the back end of the bullpen, bolstering a unit that finished 11th in MLB in saves in 2024. The Blue Jays’ pursuit of fairbanks underscores their commitment to strengthening their pitching staff during the offseason, aiming to contend in a competitive American League East. The Rays letting Fairbanks depart without receiving any return has been described as “shocking” for the franchise,and his potential move to a division rival adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
