10 off-season talking points for American League champion Blue Jays

Just a few days after falling painfully short of their first World Series title in 32 years, the Toronto Blue Jays are shifting focus to the off-season.

Here's a look at 10 talking points for the franchise as it prepares for the 2026 campaign.

Homegrown star Bo Bichette is one of the marquee names in this year's free-agent class.

He shifted from shortstop to second base after returning to the lineup after missing seven weeks with a knee sprain. That could be the position that makes the most sense for him if he returns to the Blue Jays or signs elsewhere.

Bichette is consistently among the league's hits leaders when healthy. His defensive play is not as strong but he's in his prime at age 27.

The Blue Jays have shown they can be big spenders. Whether they choose to invest in Bichette, who should command a nine-figure payday, will be a major storyline.

Team president Mark Shapiro is in the final year of his contract and has expressed his desire to remain with the club.

The 58-year-old joined the Blue Jays in 2015 and signed a five-year extension in January 2021. He has overseen several major projects, including major renovations to Rogers Centre and the team's player development complex in Florida.

Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins are scheduled to hold end-of-season media availabilities on Thursday, starting at 1 p.m. ET.

Shane Bieber's return for the 2026 season gives the Blue Jays' starting rotation a significant boost.

He exercised his $16 million US player option rather than try free agency and will anchor a rotation that includes ace Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios and perhaps Eric Lauer.

Veteran right-handers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt are free agents. The Blue Jays have some depth options