Toronto Blue Jays announce starting pitcher versus New York Mets
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The Toronto Blue Jays have confirmed their starting pitcher for Monday’s Grapefruit League matchup against the New York Mets.
Right-hander Jose Berrios is set to make his first appearance of the spring when the Toronto Blue Jays host the New York Mets in Dunedin, Florida on Monday.
According to Sportsnet's Hazel Mae, Berrios feels he is exactly where he needs to be physically as camp progresses, an encouraging sign for a pitcher looking to turn the page after an eventful finish to last season.
Jose Berrios will start tomorrow’s spring game vs Mets. First time we’ll see Berrios in game action since he was placed on IL (first time in 10-yr career) in September with right elbow inflammation.
“I’m where I want to be physically at this point.” 📺 Sportsnet at 1p ET
“I’m where I want to be physically at this point.” 📺 Sportsnet at 1p ET
Berrios looking for a fresh start on and off the diamond in 2026
Monday’s outing will mark Berrios’ first time on the mound for Toronto since Sept. 24, 2025.
The 31-year-old concluded last year on the injured list and did not return for the postseason.
He also stepped away from the club during the World Series.
Upon reporting to camp this spring, Berrios addressed his teammates and apologized for what he described as a “bad decision,” making it clear he is focused on winning and committed to the team..
Statistically, 2025 represented an unusual campaign for the durable veteran. Berrios posted a 4.17 ERA across 166 innings in 31 appearances, his lowest workload in a full season since 2017.
Prior to last year, he had made exactly 32 starts in six of the previous seven seasons, the only exception coming during the shortened 2020 schedule.
Durability has long been a hallmark of Berrios’ career, which makes his health and effectiveness this spring particularly important for Toronto.
The Blue Jays are counting on him to anchor a rotation that will look to build momentum early in 2026.
The Mets have not yet announced their starting pitcher or lineup for Monday’s contest. However, there is added intrigue surrounding the matchup.
If Bo Bichette makes the trip to Dunedin, it would mark the first time in his career that he faces Toronto after signing with New York during the offseason, a storyline sure to draw attention on both sides.
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Previously on Blue Jays Central
| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 22|100 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays announce starting pitcher versus New York Mets Do you think Jose Berrios will have a good Spring? | ||
| Yes | 72 | 72 % |
| No | 14 | 14 % |
| Too early to tell | 14 | 14 % |
| List of polls | ||