The Blue Jays finished last in the AL East, but Bleacher Report still ranks them 11th heading into free agency. Joel Reuter sees a team built to bounce back.

The list dropped Friday. It's a big fall from where Reuter had Toronto on Opening Day, when the Jays sat at No. 2.

The gap between those rankings tells the story of 2026. A 79-83 record, no postseason and a last-place finish.

Reuter's optimism rests on two things: the talent already on the roster, and the money Toronto can spend.

That money is real. George Springer, Shane Bieber and Max Scherzer are all headed to free agency, freeing up significant room.

Is No. 11 too generous? It might be.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the injured stars hold the key

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is capable of far more than his 2026 showed. Addison Barger and Anthony Santander missed most or all of the year and could add offence when they return.

But capability isn't production. Toronto entered 2026 believing its established hitters would carry the lineup, and they didn't.

That's the trap to avoid. Bounce-back seasons should be pleasant surprises, not the foundation of the plan.

No. 11 is a ranking built on hope, and hope doesn't win games. Unless Ross Atkins adds real bats and real starters, this club will slide right back down the list.

A preseason ranking is like a weather forecast. Nice to read, but you still pack an umbrella.

The shopping list is clear. Toronto needs power, pitching depth and enough bench flexibility to survive another wave of injuries.

Options are out there, from Seiya Suzuki and Randy Arozarena to Shane Bieber and Trevor Rogers.

The Jays have the resources to climb back into contention. If they don't use them, Reuter's next ranking won't be nearly as kind.