Jeff Hoffman responds to being stripped of closer job for Toronto Blue Jays
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Jeff Hoffman reacts after losing closer role with Toronto Blue Jays
Reliever Jeff Hoffman addressed the media after being removed from his role as the Toronto Blue Jays’ closer, sharing his perspective on the decision.
On Friday, general manager Ross Atkins announced that Hoffman would no longer handle closing duties following a difficult start to the season.
Instead, the Blue Jays are expected to adopt a closer-by-committee strategy moving forward. Pitchers like Louis Varland, Tyler Rogers, and others will rotate opportunities to finish games for the reigning American League champions.
When asked about the change, Hoffman remained composed and acknowledged the team’s reasoning.
“It gets to the point where it’s just not cutting it, and it needs to change. We’ve got plenty of guys that can do what I do,” Hoffman said, via Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi.
“They’re doing it better than what I’m doing right now, and that gives them the nod to go out there and do it for the group. I’m good for whatever is going to put us in the best position to win as many games as possible.”
Hoffman’s struggles carry into 2026
Hoffman’s performance this season has been underwhelming. Across 12 appearances, he has posted a 7.59 ERA, blown three save opportunities, and recorded a -0.6 bWAR.
While his 24 strikeouts over 10.2 innings are encouraging, and some advanced metrics suggest he may have been unlucky, the overall results haven’t met expectations.
There were warning signs dating back to 2025. Last season, Hoffman appeared in 71 games and finished with a 4.37 ERA while surrendering 15 home runs — the second-highest total among relievers.
One of the most notable moments came in Game 7 of the World Series, when Hoffman allowed a game-changing blown save against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Afterward, he openly admitted he felt responsible for the loss.
Despite those struggles, the Blue Jays began the 2026 campaign with Hoffman still in the closer role.
However, the arrangement has not worked so far, prompting the team to explore other ninth-inning options.
Hoffman aiming to earn closer's role back
Even after losing his spot, Hoffman remains optimistic about reclaiming the closer job if his performance improves.
“I’m going to go about my work the same and continue to try to get better. That’s what I do. That’s what we all do. It’ll be fine. For the time being, somebody will go out there and get the job done for us and then hopefully, if I do what I need to do, it switches back at some point,” Hoffman said.
There is nothing like stiff competition for the closer's role to bring out the best in those of wanting the job, which for the Blue Jays bodes well going forward.
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