Toronto Blue Jays emerge as surprise suitors for late free-agency sleeper

With spring training set to begin later this month, Toronto Blue Jays are entering the final phase of their offseason with unfinished business firmly in mind.

After coming agonizingly close to a World Series title last season—pushing the Los Angeles Dodgers to a decisive Game 7—Toronto is once again positioning itself as a serious championship contender for the 2026 MLB season.

Blue Jays’ offseason has been anything but quiet. High-profile additions such as Dylan Cease and Kazuma Okamoto strengthened the roster, though the club fell short in its pursuit of superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker, who ultimately signed with Los Angeles. Despite those setbacks, Toronto’s front office continues to explore ways to fine-tune a roster built to win now.

Bullpen depth emerges as key area of focus

One area still drawing attention is the bullpen, particularly the lack of proven left-handed relief options. While Brendon Little, Mason Fluharty, and swingman Eric Lauer offer depth, Toronto Blue Jays could benefit from a reliable veteran presence as they gear up for a long postseason push.

That search has led Toronto to a potential sleeper option still available in free agency: veteran reliever Danny Coulombe. Jays Journal analyst Edward Eng recently identified Coulombe as a strong late-offseason fit for Blue Jays.

“With the Blue Jays lack of depth in left-handed pitchers in their bullpen behind Brendon Little, Mason Fluharty and swingman Eric Lauer, Coulombe could provide that reliable veteran presence to help dominate left-handed hitters,” Eng wrote.

Why Danny Coulombe fits Toronto Blue Jays’ needs

Coulombe’s career numbers suggest he could quietly fill a crucial role. The 36-year-old has consistently limited left-handed hitters, holding them to a .233 batting average and a .596 OPS across his MLB career—an asset for a team with postseason aspirations.

“After all, Coulombe has held lefties to just a .233 average and .596 OPS for his entire MLB career. As a result, it should be time for Toronto to give the 36-year-old reliever a call,” Eng added.

While Coulombe may not command headlines, his recent production reinforces his value. Last season, he appeared in 55 games split between the Minnesota Twins and Texas Rangers, posting a 2-1 record with a 2.30 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and a solid 2.4 strikeout-to-walk ratio. He also recorded two saves, nine holds, and did not blow a single save.

A low-risk move with high upside

As Toronto Blue Jays prepares for another title chase, adding a dependable bullpen arm like Coulombe could be the kind of under-the-radar move that pays dividends when games matter most.