Chris Bassitt Rumors: Orioles Eye Blue Jays Pitcher as Undervalued Free Agent After World Series Run

Veteran pitcher Chris Bassitt could be heading for a surprising move within the American League East just months after helping the Toronto Blue Jays reach the World Series. Despite publicly praising Toronto as his “favorite group” he has ever played with, the 36-year-old right-hander is now drawing strong interest on the MLB free-agent market — particularly from division rival Baltimore Orioles.

As MLB free agency continues to unfold ahead of spring training, Bassitt has emerged as one of the most intriguing remaining starting pitchers available. His durability, postseason experience, and consistent performance make him an appealing target for teams looking to strengthen their rotation for the 2026 season.

Chris Bassitt Free Agency Update: Orioles Among Top Suitors

According to MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Baltimore Orioles are actively pursuing starting pitching help after missing out on former Houston Astros left-hander Framber Valdez, who signed a five-year, $125 million contract with the Detroit Tigers.

With Valdez off the market, the Orioles have shifted their focus to several alternative free-agent arms. Heyman reports that Arizona Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen could top Baltimore’s wish list, followed by Lucas Giolito and Chris Bassitt among other available pitchers.

Bassitt’s potential move to Baltimore would be particularly notable given the division rivalry between the Orioles and Blue Jays. If signed, he would not only strengthen Baltimore’s rotation but also provide valuable insight into a key divisional opponent.

Bassitt Praised Blue Jays After World Series Loss

Following Toronto’s heartbreaking World Series defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Bassitt spoke emotionally about his experience with the team. The veteran pitcher described the Blue Jays as “my favorite group I’ve ever played with,” a significant statement considering his 11-year MLB career spanning multiple organizations.

Bassitt played an important role during Toronto’s postseason run and delivered strong performances throughout the playoffs. His comments at the time suggested a deep connection with teammates and the organization.

However, the realities of MLB free agency often outweigh emotional ties. Just three months later, Bassitt appears poised to sign elsewhere, with the Blue Jays and pitcher seemingly moving in different directions.

A Durable Workhorse on the Mound

One of the biggest reasons for strong interest in Bassitt across the league is his remarkable durability. Even as he approaches his age-37 season, the right-hander remains one of the most reliable inning-eaters in baseball.

Over the last four seasons, Bassitt has consistently logged heavy workloads:

• At least 170 innings pitched in each of the last four seasons

• A peak of 200 innings in 2023

• 723 total innings during that span

• A combined 3.77 ERA across those four seasons

Few pitchers in today’s MLB can match that level of consistency and endurance. For teams like the Orioles, who lacked high-volume starters last season, Bassitt’s reliability could be extremely valuable.

In 2025, only Dean Kremer surpassed 170 innings for Baltimore, throwing 171 2/3. Meanwhile, veteran Tomoyuki Sugano carried the second-largest workload but has not reached 170 innings since 2018 during his time in Japan.

Adding Bassitt would provide immediate stability and depth to the Orioles’ starting rotation, helping ease pressure on younger pitchers and improving overall consistency.

Bassitt Considered an Undervalued Free Agent

Despite his track record, some analysts believe Bassitt has been undervalued in the current free-agent market. MLB.com analyst Travis Sawchik noted that with spring training approaching, the veteran starter’s availability suggests teams may be overlooking his value.

Sawchik highlighted several key strengths that continue to make Bassitt effective:

• Exceptional durability, with at least 150 innings pitched every season since 2021

• One of the deepest pitch arsenals in baseball

• Ability to rely on command, creativity, and sequencing rather than pure velocity

• Improved curveball effectiveness, with positive run value compared to league average

• Solid advanced metrics, including a 3.92 SIERA better than league average

Even as his velocity has declined slightly with age, Bassitt has adapted by refining pitch selection and strategy. His ability to outthink hitters and change speeds allows him to remain competitive against modern MLB offenses.

Analysts believe he still has enough performance left to contribute meaningfully through the 2026 season and possibly beyond.

Postseason Experience Adds to Appeal

Another major factor boosting Bassitt’s free-agent value is his postseason experience. Since 2020, he has appeared in 10 playoff games and compiled a strong 3.04 ERA across 23 2/3 innings.

During Toronto’s recent playoff run, Bassitt demonstrated his versatility and resilience. Although he was held out of the AL Division Series due to a back injury, he returned later in the postseason and pitched out of the bullpen.

In seven relief appearances, Bassitt threw 8 2/3 innings and allowed just one earned run, delivering crucial performances under pressure. His ability to shift from starter to reliever — despite rarely pitching out of the bullpen in recent seasons — showcased his adaptability and team-first mentality.

For contending teams like the Orioles, that postseason reliability could prove invaluable in high-stakes games.

Orioles’ Rotation Needs and Potential Fit

Baltimore has emerged as a serious contender in the American League but continues to seek additional pitching depth to sustain its success. After missing out on top free-agent targets, adding a veteran like Bassitt could help stabilize the rotation and provide leadership for younger pitchers.

Bassitt would bring:

• Proven durability and innings stability

• Veteran leadership and postseason experience

• Tactical pitching intelligence

• Consistent mid-rotation production

He could slot into the middle of Baltimore’s rotation and immediately become one of the team’s most dependable starters.

What’s Next for Chris Bassitt?

With spring training just around the corner, Bassitt’s free-agency decision could come soon. Teams seeking experienced starting pitching — especially contenders — are expected to monitor his market closely.

Whether he signs with the Orioles or another club, Bassitt remains one of the most intriguing veteran pitchers available. His combination of durability, performance consistency, and postseason experience makes him a valuable asset for any team aiming to compete in 2026.

A move within the AL East would add another compelling storyline to the upcoming MLB season. For now, Chris Bassitt’s future remains uncertain, but his impact on whichever team signs him could be significant as the race toward Opening Day intensifies.