Chris Bassitt pens emotional goodbye to Toronto Blue Jays fans
Photo credit: Chris Bassitt - x.com
Former Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Chris Bassitt delivered an emotional farewell to fans on Thursday.
On Wednesday Toronto Blue Jays fans got the bad news that Chris Bassitt signed a one-year $18.5 million contract with the division rival Baltimore Orioles.
The news of Bassitt’s departure stung for many in Toronto, but the 36-year-old made sure to express his appreciation for the organization and its supporters across Canada.
Taking to social media, Chris Bassitt reflected on his three seasons with the Blue Jays and the personal milestones his family experienced during that time.
“Toronto and all of Canada… I’m beyond grateful that my family and I chose to come 3 years ago. From having our youngest son there to getting to a World Series and everything in between. It was filled with love and friendships that my family will cherish for the rest of our lives. We gave you everything we had. Yall gave us so much more. Thank yall for literally everything.”
Bassitt made a lasting impact on the Blue Jays clubhouse and fanbase alike
Bassitt spent three seasons in Toronto, serving as a stabilizing force in the rotation. In 2025, he logged 170.1 regular-season innings, posting a 3.96 ERA with 166 strikeouts and 56 walks.
He also played a key role in the club’s postseason run, transitioning to the bullpen during the ALCS and World Series and recording a 1.04 ERA with 10 strikeouts over 8.2 innings.
Thank you for everything, Chris Bassitt. @C_Bass419
Over his 11-year major league career, Bassitt has pitched for the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, New York Mets and Blue Jays.
His future in Toronto appeared uncertain this winter after the club added multiple arms to its rotation mix in free agency.
During his tenure, Bassitt was part of one of baseball’s most durable rotations.
Alongside Kevin Gausman and José Berrios, he ranked among the league’s top 10 in innings pitched over the past three seasons — a testament to both his consistency and reliability.
Now, he joins an Orioles team looking to rebound from a disappointing 75-87 campaign that left them at the bottom of the competitive American League East in 2025.
“The Hound” leaves the Toronto Blue Jays having made a lasting impact on the clubhouse and fanbase alike.
His time with the Blue Jays may be over, but his contributions — and his heartfelt goodbye — won’t soon be forgotten.
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