7 Blue Jays players expected to be playing their final season in Toronto

We often talk about championship windows, but rarely is the closing date this specific.

Based on current contracts, the end of the 2026 season could see a mass exodus that fundamentally reshapes the roster.

It's not just fringe players; it's the core of the rotation and the defense.

Here are the 7 players who might be wearing Blue Jays blue for the last time.

1. Kevin Gausman: The ace of the staff is entering the final year of his five-year, $110 million deal. He turns 35 in January, and while he's been a rock, this is his last chance to earn another big contract. If the Jays stumble, he's a prime trade candidate.

2. George Springer: The six-year, $150 million era comes to an end. Entering his age-36 season, Springer has been the emotional leader, but his contract expiring frees up $25 million annually. A reunion seems unlikely unless it's on a very team-friendly deal.

3. Shane Bieber: After opting into his player option for 2026, the former Cy Young winner is betting on himself. A healthy season sets him up for a massive payday elsewhere; a poor one leaves his future in limbo.

4. Daulton Varsho: This one is tricky. While some sources list him as a free agent in 2027, others suggest his service time clock could push him to free agency after 2026 depending on arbitration outcomes. Regardless, his price tag is about to explode.

5. Ernie Clement: The fan-favorite utility man signed a one-year, $4.6 million deal to avoid arbitration. He hits the open market after the season, and teams always overpay for versatility.

6. Yimi Garcia: The veteran reliever returned on a two-year deal that expires after 2026. Bullpen arms are volatile, and at 35, he's pitching for his next job.

7. Tyler Heineman: The backup catcher and "vibes guy" is also on a one-year deal. While not a superstar, his departure would leave a hole in the depth chart that teams often struggle to fill cheaply.

This list represents the spine of the team: the ace, the center fielder, the veteran leader, and key depth pieces.

Ross Atkins has pushed all his chips into the center of the table for 2026.

If this group wins it all, they leave as legends. If they fail, the rebuild in 2027 will be swift and painful.