The worst contracts in Toronto Blue Jays history are not just grotesque overpays in free agency. A bad contract is defined as the gap between the value a player provides and the money they receive, so this can apply to players acquired via trade or signed to extensions.
For instance, a player could be a baseball betting favourite to win the MVP award at the start of their deal, but it might still prove to be a bad contract if they’re overpaid for half a decade.
Worst Contracts in Toronto Blue Jays History
5. Andrés Giménez
The Andrés Giménez contract wasn’t handed out by the Blue Jays, but Toronto traded for the weak-hitting infielder when he was only two years into a seven-year, $106.5 million extension that he signed with the Cleveland Guardians.
A great glove has ensured Giménez has still provided some value, but he was among the worst hitters in the big leagues in 2025. Blue Jays World Series odds would be shorter if they had a better hitter in Giménez’s spot.
4. Hyun Jin Ryu
Hyun Jin Ryu was elite in his first year as a Blue Jay, but his value was limited as it was the pandemic-shortened season. Ryu had a 102 ERA+ in 2021 and made only 17 starts over the final two years of his deal.
Toronto paid $80 million for 5.1 bWAR across 60 starts. Ryu had a 101 ERA+ across the 2021, 2022, and 2023 seasons.
3. Tanner Roark
Two years and $24 million didn’t seem like a bad deal when the Jays signed Tanner Roark in the 2019-20 offseason, but they didn’t get anywhere near sufficient value from the veteran right-hander.
Roark made only 14 appearances as a Blue Jay with a 66 ERA+.
2. Frank Thomas
Jays fans got to enjoy future Hall of Famer Frank Thomas’ 500th big-league home run, but that was all that could really be taken from the Big Hurt’s two-year, $18 million deal.
Thomas had a decent first season, but declined at the plate in his second year. His time as a Blue Jay ended in
acrimonious fashion.
1. Anthony Santander
Coming off a 2024 season powered by batted-ball fortune as a Baltimore Oriole, Anthony Santander was handed a five-year, $92.5 million contract in free agency. Santander posted a 57 OPS+ across his first 54 games as a Blue Jay.
Injury limited the slugger’s involvement in his first campaign with the team and has sidelined him into the 2026 season.
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
