Has Toronto Blue Jays workhorse Jose Berrios become expendable with addition of Dylan Cease?
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The Toronto Blue Jays made a substantial investment towards the future of their rotation, but it could leave one pitcher on the outside looking in.
Berrios, he has been Mr. Reliable for so long - with his 32 starts a season - ended 2025 on the IL after being moved to the bullpen.
Now, with the Blue Jays recent signing of Dylan Cease, one wonders if Toronto is ready to move on from their one-time workhorse.
Report: Blue Jays may listen for swap involving Jose Berrios
It's true that if the season were to open tomorrow, Berrios would still likely be the number four or five starter, along with Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, and Cease. However, Eric Lauer is still a factor and Bowden Francis will be healthy again.
Additionally, the Jays pitching depth in the minor leagues includes Jake Bloss, Adam Macko, Ricky Tiedemann, and Gage Stanifer.
Another factor to consider is Berrios' opt-out after next season.
If the Blue Jays feel that Berrios will exercise that clause in his contract and forfeit the last two years to hit free agency early, then the Blue Jays might consider dealing La Makina rather than letting him walk for nothing.
Proliferation of outfielders could help with trade
Berrios could be dealt for some mid-to-high level prospects or a major-league player. While the Jays could trade him on his own, they could also package him together with one of their many outfielders on the roster and perhaps some low-level prospects.
While as of yet there has been nothing to indicate the Jays are considering moving Berrios, it is not out of the realm of possibility.
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