2026 MLB Draft: How 2025 decisions alter the Blue Jays’ draft strategy this year
It’s almost that time of year again: the 2026 Major League Baseball amateur draft is quickly approaching. The Toronto Blue Jays will look to revamp their farm system and polish the potential future of the franchise.
So, where exactly do the Blue Jays sit in the draft order?
Toronto will make its first selection at 39th overall. The Blue Jays originally held the 29th overall pick; however, because they exceeded the competitive balance tax (CBT) second threshold surcharge, they were penalized with a 10-pick drop.
While the 39th pick technically falls just after the traditional first round, the draft order gets trickier from there. The Blue Jays surrendered their second-round pick as compensation for signing right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease. Consequently, they won’t select again until the third and fourth rounds, where they hold the 103rd and 131st picks. After the fourth round, they will finally receive a compensation pick with Bo Bichette signing with the New York Mets last winter.
This payroll mark pushes Toronto just above $300 million, marking the second consecutive year the Blue Jays have exceeded the competitive balance tax threshold.
That being said, a few delayed picks and a lost second-rounder won’t completely derail the Blue Jays; they still have a fair shot at putting together a strong draft class. However, how they prioritize their selections will be critical.
Selecting 39th overall means missing out on the draft’s highest-leverage names. It could also dictate whether they pivot toward a polished collegiate prospect or a high-upside high school player. The front office faces a defining choice: do they target a pitcher, a reliable position player, or a projectable bat?
The Blue Jays front office must isolate their areas of greatest need. Pitching is always a premium, but perhaps they look for a high-leverage catcher? Or maybe they target a college-level position player who could be a quick riser in the system?
While Toronto’s draft positioning, penalties, and lost picks will undoubtedly alter their draft day strategy, the Blue Jays still have an excellent opportunity to pad their system with credible, impactful talent.