Blue Jays reliever elects free agency
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Jacob Barnes has elected free agency. While he could've accepted an outright assignment, he ha chosen to reject and is now free to sign with any team. The reliever was designated for assignment by the Blue Jays late Saturday after giving up five runs in a relief appearance.
Barnes didn't have an amazing spring and his inclusion on the final roster was considered a bit of a surprise. While he had a few good appearances for the Blue Jays this year, Saturday's performance swelled his ERA to and 9.00.
2025 was actually Barnes' second turn with the team; he first pitched for Toronto back in 2021 after being acquired in a deal with the New York Mets.
Back then, Barnes was DFA'd after posting a 6.00 ERA in nine appearances. He was eventually outrighted off the roster. He re-joined the team at the end of the season, before being DFA'd again that October and elected free agency two days later.
While it could take a few days, Barnes will likely land on his feet with another organization, as many teams would consider him to a low-cost, low-risk depth option for their bullpen. If he does sign, it would likely be on a minor league deal.
In addition to his stints with the Blue Jays, Barnes has also suited up for eight other teams - the Brewers, Royals, Angels, Mets, Tigers, Yankees, Cardinals, and Nationals.
Barnes has never stuck around in any one place for too long. His longest tenure with a single team came during his time in Milwaukee, with whom he played for from 2016-2019. He has been a journeyman ever since.
For his career, Barnes is 16-21 with a 4.79 ERA and seven saves.
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