Toronto Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins continues to leave the door open for a potential return with free-agent slugger Jose Bautista.

"He is a proven force in the lineup. He's obviously still an alternative for us and we're glad that he is," Atkins told MLB Network on Tuesday. "We'll do everything we can to improve our team and that is one avenue."

It was reported last week that Bautista is willing to accept a one-year deal to re-sign with the Blue Jays as long as it exceeds the $17.2-million qualifying offer that he rejected in November. The Blue Jays, however, have not given Bautista an offer in that range.

The six-time All-Star has seen his market collapse this winter following a down season in which he hit .234/.366/.452 with 22 home runs, 24 doubles, and 87 strikeouts in 116 games. Perceived attitude issues, in addition to a number of big-market teams not having available roster space, or funds, has made it difficult for Bautista to secure a contract.

The Blue Jays entered the offseason in need of a pair of outfielders, and despite being linked to a number of players, there's been little in the way of additions to the roster outside of adding utility man Steve Pearce. The front office has reportedly expressed interest in Jay Bruce, Curtis Granderson, and Andrew McCutchen, but would likely prefer to find a player through free agency first, before going to the trade route.

In addition to Bautista, Michael Saunders, Rajai Davis, Brandon Moss and Mark Trumbo represent the top outfielders still on the free-agent market. Trumbo and Bautista are the only two outfielders who are linked to draft-pick compensation.