As several loyal Bauxites have pointed out, ESPN has reported the Jays hosted a private workout for Cuban defector Aroldis Chapman in their Dunedin spring training facility with both of his agents present. Despite saying earlier in the offseason that the team wouldn’t be a player for Chapman, Anthopolous and the front office likely must have some genuine interest in Chapman in order for him to agree to the private throwing session.
The Red Sox offered Chapman $15 million earlier this offseason, which he turned down. So, either his demands have decreased or the Jays are demonstrating interest despite the fact it will possibly take upwards of $20 million to sign him. I’m still not convinced the Jays will win a bidding war if the Yankees, Red Sox or a similar big-market team truly wants Chapman, but it seems the Jays are not letting the rumoured price tag eliminate them from the talks. As several Bauxites have speculated, there may, however small, be an advantage in being the only Canadian team in the bidding war.
While the fact the Jays are interested in Chapman is exciting news, it raises larger questions. If they are going to submit an eight-figure offer to Chapman’s agents, where is this money coming from? Will this take away from the money Anthopolous has said is earmarked for the upcoming amateur draft and Toronto’s multiple high-round picks? If not, does this signal an increased commitment to the team from Rogers?
What do you think Bauxites? Is spending, say, $20-25 million or more on Chapman a wise investment for the Jays?
https://www.battersbox.ca/article.php?story=2010010213512235