Re: MLB The Show 24 Franchise Mode Discussion Thread
Blue Jays Franchise: 2024
We're back! I've settled with the Jays, and simulated year 1 to roll into my first actual offseason with the club. I do have to say, after a (nearly) 4 year Rockies franchise in '22, the draft is a heck of a lot more entertaining now.
Anyway, to recap the simulated version of year 1, the Phillies captured their 3rd World Series title, and first since '08, beating the O's in 6 games.
As for the Jays, it was a season that reflected real life as closely as one can imagine, with an underwhelming/injury plagued season from Bo Bichette, inconsistent production from their rotation, one of, if not the worst bullpens in baseball, and an absolutely tepid offence, aside from Vlad Guerrero Jr.
Toronto would finish the season with the 4th worst record in the Majors.
Looking forward to the offseason, Toronto has an opportunity to make additions, but a lot of internal issues that could hold them back.
Rotation: The opportunity to add to their rotation will be difficult. An intriguing group of Berrios, Gausman, Manoah (looking to bounce back after 2 difficult seasons), and Bowden Francis, who emerged to be a solid starter last year, the final spot in the rotation is basically guaranteed to Chris Bassitt, who with 1 more year at $21 mil is too expensive to move, especially after a down '24 season. Yariel Rodriguez made some starts this year, but looks like he'll be more of a multi-inning weapon in '25. Adding depth options will be the key after an injury filled season.
Bullpen: Here's where things get interesting. Last season the Jays trotted out a ton of relievers, and finished the year dead last in bullpen ERA. Closer Jordan Romano *should* be healthy to start the season, and Chad Green will look to build on a solid '24 campaign, with the aforementioned Rodriguez likely being penciled in as well. Aside from that though, it's wide open. There are some fun names available in free agency, and it shouldn't be surprising to see 2-3 different external options being added.
Lineup: There were plenty of underqualified players who did an adequate job last year, but if the Jays want to make a quick turnaround, some of these guys will likely be starting in AAA, or end up being traded. Vlad, Bo, Kirk and Varsho are realistically the only players that *should* have their names etched in on the opening day lineup. Did you notice how we didn't mention George Springer there? If the Jays are truly serious about competing, Springer may end up with either a platoon partner, or a (very) expensive bench job. With 2 years left on his deal, that's an expensive decision to make, but there may be a hybrid role that better suits his talents.
Potential Targets: The chatter this season has been about how perfectly Juan Soto's left handed bat would fit into this lineup. After missing out on Shohei Ohtani last offseason, the team may look to finally strike big on the open market. If they were to miss out on Soto, the logical target would be switch hitting outfielder Anthony Santander. While he's not a great defender, his bat plays.
When it comes to the bullpen, the Jays have really held back on spending big bucks, and while they'll certainly have to spend this year, the big-name market is virtually non-existent. Guys like Blake Treinen, Carlos Estevez, AJ Minter, Tanner Scott, and Clay Holmes are all ok options, but none represent that true shutdown option that the Jays will be looking for. Don't be surprised to see the team check out the trade market if they can't get much done early. With a few intriguing names available, though they're coming off down seasons, such as Camilo Doval. Devin Williams of the Brewers could be an option as well, as he might price himself out of Milwaukee, with 1 year of arbitration left before he becomes a free agent.
Blue Jays Franchise: 2024
We're back! I've settled with the Jays, and simulated year 1 to roll into my first actual offseason with the club. I do have to say, after a (nearly) 4 year Rockies franchise in '22, the draft is a heck of a lot more entertaining now.
Anyway, to recap the simulated version of year 1, the Phillies captured their 3rd World Series title, and first since '08, beating the O's in 6 games.
As for the Jays, it was a season that reflected real life as closely as one can imagine, with an underwhelming/injury plagued season from Bo Bichette, inconsistent production from their rotation, one of, if not the worst bullpens in baseball, and an absolutely tepid offence, aside from Vlad Guerrero Jr.
Toronto would finish the season with the 4th worst record in the Majors.
Looking forward to the offseason, Toronto has an opportunity to make additions, but a lot of internal issues that could hold them back.
Rotation: The opportunity to add to their rotation will be difficult. An intriguing group of Berrios, Gausman, Manoah (looking to bounce back after 2 difficult seasons), and Bowden Francis, who emerged to be a solid starter last year, the final spot in the rotation is basically guaranteed to Chris Bassitt, who with 1 more year at $21 mil is too expensive to move, especially after a down '24 season. Yariel Rodriguez made some starts this year, but looks like he'll be more of a multi-inning weapon in '25. Adding depth options will be the key after an injury filled season.
Bullpen: Here's where things get interesting. Last season the Jays trotted out a ton of relievers, and finished the year dead last in bullpen ERA. Closer Jordan Romano *should* be healthy to start the season, and Chad Green will look to build on a solid '24 campaign, with the aforementioned Rodriguez likely being penciled in as well. Aside from that though, it's wide open. There are some fun names available in free agency, and it shouldn't be surprising to see 2-3 different external options being added.
Lineup: There were plenty of underqualified players who did an adequate job last year, but if the Jays want to make a quick turnaround, some of these guys will likely be starting in AAA, or end up being traded. Vlad, Bo, Kirk and Varsho are realistically the only players that *should* have their names etched in on the opening day lineup. Did you notice how we didn't mention George Springer there? If the Jays are truly serious about competing, Springer may end up with either a platoon partner, or a (very) expensive bench job. With 2 years left on his deal, that's an expensive decision to make, but there may be a hybrid role that better suits his talents.
Potential Targets: The chatter this season has been about how perfectly Juan Soto's left handed bat would fit into this lineup. After missing out on Shohei Ohtani last offseason, the team may look to finally strike big on the open market. If they were to miss out on Soto, the logical target would be switch hitting outfielder Anthony Santander. While he's not a great defender, his bat plays.
When it comes to the bullpen, the Jays have really held back on spending big bucks, and while they'll certainly have to spend this year, the big-name market is virtually non-existent. Guys like Blake Treinen, Carlos Estevez, AJ Minter, Tanner Scott, and Clay Holmes are all ok options, but none represent that true shutdown option that the Jays will be looking for. Don't be surprised to see the team check out the trade market if they can't get much done early. With a few intriguing names available, though they're coming off down seasons, such as Camilo Doval. Devin Williams of the Brewers could be an option as well, as he might price himself out of Milwaukee, with 1 year of arbitration left before he becomes a free agent.
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