The offseason has been active for several former Toronto Blue Jays, with notable moves making headlines.
Among them, pitcher **Yusei Kikuchi** secured a significant deal, agreeing to a 3-year, $63 million contract with the **Los Angeles Angels**, giving him an average annual salary of $21 million. Kikuchi’s resurgence in Toronto in 2023 likely contributed to his market value as a reliable starter for the Angels.
Another former Blue Jay, **Franklin Barreto**, has signed a minor league deal with the **Baltimore Orioles**, although it remains unclear if it includes an invite to major league Spring Training.
Barreto, once a top international prospect, is best remembered in Toronto as part of the blockbuster trade that sent him, along with Kendall Graveman, Sean Nolin, and Brett Lawrie, to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for MVP third baseman **Josh Donaldson** in 2014.
Barreto’s move to the Orioles comes after two years in Mexican baseball, coincidentally marking the 10th anniversary of that landmark trade.
### Baltimore Orioles’ Offseason Moves
The Orioles have made intriguing decisions in shaping their roster, particularly in the bullpen. On Friday, they **non-tendered right-hander Jacob Webb**, making him a free agent after a productive two-season stint in Baltimore.
This follows their earlier decision to decline the 2025 team option for lefty **Danny Coulombe**, another key bullpen piece.
Baltimore’s only settled arbitration case so far is with infielder **Emmanuel Rivera**, who agreed to a $1 million contract. However, the team has tendered contracts to 11 arbitration-eligible players, including several core contributors such as:
– **Adley Rutschman (C)**
– **Cedric Mullins (CF)**
– **Ryan Mountcastle (1B)**
– **Kyle Bradish (RHP)**
– **Dean Kremer (RHP)**
– **Gregory Soto (LHP)**
The Orioles’ focus remains on maintaining a strong core while navigating decisions to solidify their bullpen and lineup for the 2024 season. These moves reflect a calculated approach to sustaining their momentum after a successful 2023 campaign.
