The Toronto Blue Jays came heartbreakingly close to clinching a World Series victory this season. Holding a 3-2 lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto faced a setback in Game 6. In the decisive Game 7, the Blue Jays initially held a commanding lead, but the Dodgers managed to equalize with just one out left in the ninth inning. With the bases loaded and only a whisker away from victory in the bottom of the ninth, Toronto’s chances slipped away.

The Dodgers seized the opportunity, launching a home run in the 11th inning. Despite the Blue Jays threatening with runners on first and third, a double play ended their hopes, allowing the Dodgers to triumphantly celebrate on Toronto’s turf.

While revisiting that defeat might sting for Blue Jays fans, there’s a silver lining as the offseason kicks off with a significant development: Toronto has inked a seven-year, $210 million deal with star pitcher Dylan Cease. This contract ranks as the fifth-largest for a pitcher in MLB history.

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Only World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto ($325 million), Gerrit Cole ($324 million), Stephen Strasburg ($245 million), and Max Fried ($218 million) have secured larger deals.

Set to turn 30 in December, Cease has consistently proven himself as a reliable starter. Over the last five years, he ranks fourth among pitchers in wins above replacement, and he finished in the top five for Cy Young voting in both 2022 (second) and 2024 (fourth).

The Padres had extended a qualifying offer of $22.025 million for the upcoming season, but Cease declined it, seeking a more lucrative arrangement—an endeavor that paid off. With an annual value of $30 million, this contract not only surpasses the Padres’ offer but also ensures financial stability for Cease well into his 30s.

Since the World Series, Blue Jays fans have alternated between wondering what might have been and what’s yet to come. This signing won’t help overcome this year’s grief, but it should build even more excitement for next year.