MLB Rumors: Blue Jays targeting Max Scherzer as interest surges for All-Star reliever

With spring training just weeks away, baseball teams across Arizona and Florida are gearing up to open their camps. Despite the clock ticking, a significant number of free agents remain unsigned, and trade candidates are still awaiting their next moves. The anticipation is building as teams look to finalize their rosters before the season begins. Here’s a comprehensive update on Monday’s hot stove buzz:

Blue Jays Pursue Max Scherzer to Bolster Rotation

The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly eyeing future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer, according to Sportsnet. After missing out on Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, the team still has a glaring need in their starting rotation. With Alek Manoah and former top prospect Ricky Tiedemann sidelined for most of 2025 due to Tommy John surgery, the Blue Jays currently rely on Chris Bassitt, José Berríos, Bowden Francis, and Kevin Gausman at the top of their rotation.

Adding Scherzer would provide a much-needed boost to their pitching depth. At 40 years old, Scherzer remains a valuable asset and was ranked as the 12th-best free agent this offseason. Similar veteran starters, including Alex Cobb, Justin Verlander, and Charlie Morton, signed one-year deals worth $15 million this winter, indicating the likely cost for Scherzer’s services.

Toronto’s offseason hasn’t gone as planned, with several high-profile targets slipping through their fingers. However, they recently landed outfielder Anthony Santander, which could signal a more aggressive approach in the coming weeks. Securing Scherzer, or another proven arm, could be the move that salvages their offseason and sets them up as a stronger contender in the AL East.

Carlos Estévez Drawing Increased Interest

As the reliever market evolves, demand for Carlos Estévez is intensifying, reports MLB.com. Both the Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago Cubs are among the teams expressing interest in the hard-throwing right-hander, who was ranked 34th on this offseason’s free agent list. Estévez, an All-Star in 2023, is also the second-highest-rated unsigned reliever behind Kenley Jansen.

The Cubs appear to be a particularly intriguing destination. Their bullpen lacks a veteran closer, and while rookie Porter Hodge stepped up admirably last season, Estévez would provide a more established late-inning option. With his power fastball and ability to miss bats, Estévez has the tools to thrive in a high-leverage role. However, he does carry some risk, as he’s been prone to giving up home runs in the past.

The 32-year-old spent last season with the Phillies after being acquired from the Angels at the 2024 trade deadline. His proven track record and All-Star pedigree make him one of the most coveted relievers still available in free agency.

Cardinals Explore New Options with Financial Flexibility

The St. Louis Cardinals may have been quiet this offseason, but recent comments from President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak suggest that could change. Speaking at the team’s Winter Warm-Up event, Mozeliak revealed that owner Bill DeWitt Jr. has granted additional financial flexibility.

“(DeWitt) is giving me a little bit of flexibility because we haven’t been able to accomplish what we thought we would by now,” Mozeliak said. Despite the additional resources, the Cardinals are in a self-described “reset” phase. Payroll is expected to drop from last year’s $172.2 million to a projected $146.7 million, according to Cot’s Baseball Contracts.

The Cardinals have been unusually inactive this offseason, with their only outside acquisitions being waiver claims for pitchers Bailey Horn and Roddery Muñoz. No trades or major league free-agent signings have materialized, leaving fans eager to see how the front office plans to address key roster needs before spring training begins.

Final Thoughts

As the countdown to spring training continues, the hot stove remains ablaze with rumors and activity. From the Blue Jays’ pursuit of Scherzer to the rising demand for Carlos Estévez, teams are making their final pushes to solidify their rosters. Meanwhile, the Cardinals’ newfound financial flexibility adds another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a busy lead-up to the 2025 MLB season.