Strong Interest in Anthony Santander from Blue Jays, Yankees, and Red Sox

The free-agent market is buzzing with interest in outfielder Anthony Santander, particularly from the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Boston Red Sox. Jon Morosi of MLB.com reports that these three teams, having recently missed out on Juan Soto, are now turning their attention to Santander.


The connection makes sense, as all three clubs are looking to strengthen their outfield after falling short in the Soto sweepstakes. Soto was the crown jewel of this winter's free-agent outfield market, towering above the rest of the available players. With Soto now off the board, teams are pivoting to other high-impact options like Santander, Teoscar Hernández, Jurickson Profar, Tyler O’Neill, and Michael Conforto. Notably, O’Neill and Conforto have already signed, leaving Santander as a prime target.


Santander, 30, may not match Soto's youth or plate discipline, but his power is undeniable. Over the past three seasons, he has consistently hit at least 28 home runs per year, including a remarkable 44 homers in the most recent campaign. This brings his total to 105 home runs from 2022-24. His .244/.317/.478 batting line over that period translates to a 124 wRC+, indicating he was 24% better than the league average. Additionally, his 8.5% walk rate is league average, while his 20.5% strikeout rate is slightly better than average.


It's no surprise that Santander is attracting significant interest given his production. His ability to switch-hit without strong platoon splits adds to his appeal. As a righty against lefties, he hit .239/.309/.513 in 2024 for a 132 wRC+. Against righties, he posted a .225/.306/.488 line for a 123 wRC+. Over his career, he has a 111 wRC+ against lefties and 116 against righties, showcasing his versatility.