Dave Fleming finds players comparable to George Springer and uses them to speculate on the range of outcomes Toronto could expect from their six-year commitment:

I am on the fence. I like Springer and root for him, and I like Toronto and I’m rooting for the team. And I understand the team’s motivation: the Jays were looking for an impact player to add this offseason, and Springer certainly ticks that box.

But investing in a corner outfielder entering his thirties is the kind of move that has limited upside. Springer is safe safe bet – his range of skills means that he will continue to be an effective player if some of his skills decline a tad – but he isn’t likely to have better seasons going forward. He has the potential to swing the Blue Jays fortunes somewhat, but he isn’t locking up the pennant. That work is on the kids.

BillJamesOnline.com

This is a win now move. Toronto is approaching thirty years without a championship. They’ve had one division win since their last World Series victory. Due to the uncertainty of the season, they could sign a very good player for under the usual going price for free agents. It’s exactly the right move for a club that wants to come out on top.