## Blue Jays avoid arbitration with pitcher Yusei Kikuchi ### Remaining MLB free agents, arbitration salaries The Toronto Blue Jays have avoided arbitration with pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, agreeing to a one-year, $11 million contract. Kikuchi was acquired by the Blue Jays in a trade with the Texas Rangers in March of 2023. The left-hander made 32 starts for the Blue Jays in 2023, going 6-7 with a 5.19 ERA. The 31-year-old Kikuchi is entering his eighth MLB season. He has a career record of 58-63 with a 4.44 ERA. With the signing of Kikuchi, the Blue Jays have now avoided arbitration with all of their arbitration-eligible players. The team also signed Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Alek Manoah to long-term extensions this offseason. The Blue Jays are coming off a disappointing 2023 season, finishing with a record of 92-70 and missing the playoffs. The team is hoping that the addition of Kikuchi will help them improve their pitching staff and compete for a playoff spot in 2024. Other notable remaining MLB free agents include shortstop Carlos Correa, outfielder Andrew Benintendi, and starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi.
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