The MLB offseason is heating up, and the race to secure top talent is more intense than ever. With Ryan Helsley off the market, all eyes are now on Pete Fairbanks, who could be the next closer to sign a major deal. But here's where it gets interesting: both the Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins are reportedly in the running, according to industry insiders. Is Fairbanks the missing piece these teams need to dominate their divisions?
The Blue Jays, fresh off securing Dylan Cease with a seven-year contract, are still on the hunt for late-inning relievers. They’ve already missed out on Helsley, Raisel Iglesias, and Phil Maton, making Fairbanks an even more appealing target. But here’s the part most people miss: Fairbanks has a proven track record against the Jays, holding Toronto hitters to a measly .130 batting average and a .468 OPS in 27 career innings. Could this familiarity give the Jays an edge in negotiations, or will it drive up his price?
Meanwhile, the Marlins have a secret weapon in their pursuit: President of Baseball Operations Peter Bendix, who knows Fairbanks well from his time with the Tampa Bay Rays (2009–’21). Is this insider knowledge enough to sway Fairbanks to Miami? Other contenders are also circling, with most teams at least making initial contact. At 32, Fairbanks is coming off a solid season as the Rays’ closer, posting a 2.83 ERA and a career-high 27 saves. Despite the Rays declining his $11 million option, he remains a viable, under-the-radar alternative to bigger names like Edwin Díaz and Devin Williams.
Speaking of surprises, Cody Ponce is turning heads for all the wrong reasons. After a stellar season in Korea, where he went 17-1 with a 1.89 ERA and 252 strikeouts, industry sources now expect him to command a three-year deal worth at least $30 million—and possibly over $40 million. Is this a bargain or a risky bet? The Athletic’s Eno Sarris highlighted Ponce’s improved velocity and breaking balls, but his success in Korea doesn’t guarantee MLB dominance. Are teams overpaying for potential, or is Ponce the next big thing?
And let’s not forget Jake Meyers, the Astros’ center fielder who’s drawing interest from multiple clubs. With a projected $3.5 million salary and a modest offensive breakout last season, Meyers is an affordable upgrade for teams like the Phillies, Mets, and Rays. But here’s the catch: the Astros might be skeptical of his ability to replicate his 2025 performance. Is Meyers a diamond in the rough, or just a flash in the pan?
Finally, the clock is ticking for Brandon Lowe with the Rays. With one year left on his contract and a $11.5 million salary, Lowe could be on the move. The Pirates, Athletics, and Giants are all in need of a left-handed bat, but trading Lowe leaves a gaping hole at second base for the Rays. Can they afford to lose one of their best hitters, or will they find a way to keep him?
And in a sign of progress, the Marlins are losing coaches to other teams—a testament to their recent success. Is this a blessing or a curse? While it’s flattering, it also means rebuilding staff mid-season. Are the Marlins ready for the challenges that come with being a model organization?
What do you think? Is Fairbanks worth the hype? Is Ponce’s price tag justified? And should the Rays trade Lowe? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
