Yoán Moncada could soon have a new home. Francys Romero reported that the longtime White Sox infielder is “generating a lot of interest” in the free agent market and mentions the Toronto Blue Jays as a team with real interest in his services.
Moncada’s Departure In Chicago
Moncada’s inability to stay healthy in recent seasons is well documented. He has played just 104 games over the past two seasons combined. As a result, the White Sox declining his 2025 team option in November was a foregone conclusion. The team was never going to pay him $25 million for the 2025 season given his durability issues. They instead chose to pay him a $5 million buyout, making him a free agent.
Intriguing Upside Remains
Despite his injuries, Moncada still has upside and intrigue across the league. He is only 29 and has shown the ability to be an above-average major leaguer when healthy. His ability to hit from both sides of the plate and his exceptional glove work at third base are traits not many players have. He also will not command a substantial contract this offseason, making him an intriguing buy-low option on the free agent market.
His Potential Fit In Toronto
The Blue Jays represent an interesting potential landing spot for Moncada. They were not a particularly good team in 2024, finishing with a record of just 74-88. Yet they have a fair amount of talent. Their lineup features a star in Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and other solid players like Bo Bichette, Daulton Varsho, and George Springer. Their primary third baseman, Ernie Clement, had a good 2024 season. But he is versatile, capable of playing just about anywhere defensively. Toronto could move him into a utility role to accommodate Moncada at third base.
A change of scenery could be what Moncada needs to get his career back on track. His time in Chicago ran its course, and a separation for both parties was needed. For Moncada, latching on elsewhere on a prove-it deal is his path. Gone are the days of guaranteed big contracts. He must prove himself now to keep his MLB career going. Toronto could be the place to make that happen for him.
The Moncada Era Is Over
Yoán Moncada came to the White Sox with sky-high potential as the #1 prospect in all of MLB at the time. Fans thought he would be a superstar and the centerpiece on the south side. Unfortunately, it didn’t play out like that. The team will now go in a younger direction at third base, likely giving Bryan Ramos and Miguel Vargas ample opportunities to prove themselves next season. As the White Sox continue with their youth movement, it will be interesting to see where Moncada ultimately lands and what kind of season he has in 2025.
I’d rank any interest as a surprise.