Report: Blue Jays, Fowler remain apart in contract talks

The Toronto Blue Jays have identified free-agent outfielder Dexter Fowler as a strong fit, though they're not close to adding his signature on a contract.

Both sides have been in discussions about a possible deal, though they still remain apart in talks, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, who adds the St. Louis Cardinals as another strong possibility for Fowler.

Fowler is coming off a strong season with the World Series-winning Chicago Cubs and is reportedly seeking a four-year deal worth $18 million annually. The 30-year-old crosses off several boxes for the Blue Jays, including his ability to switch-hit, bat leadoff, play the outfield, and inject some more speed and defense into the lineup.

Despite hitting .276/.393/.447 with 13 home runs, 25 doubles, and 13 stolen bases a season ago, there is some concern with signing Fowler. He's averaged 129 games over the last four seasons and playing up to 81 games on the Rogers Centre turf isn't ideal for a player who dealt with hamstring issues in 2016. Fowler is also tied to draft-pick compensation, though the Blue Jays could gain a pair of compensation picks should Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista sign elsewhere.