Blue Jays To Deploy Jose Berrios As Relief Pitcher

"but the veteran starter now looks to be moving to the bullpen for the remainder of the Blue Jays' 2025 campaign. Following the Jays' ugly 20-1 loss to the Royals on Friday, manager John Schneider told Sportsnet's Shi Davidi and other reporters about the somewhat fluid situation today, saying that Berrios " can still start for us," but " he's kind of an option if we need him on days like today and will be going forward.""

"A playoff berth is a virtual lock and a division title and homefield advantage throughout the AL playoffs are still distinct possibilities, so the Jays are in good shape heading into their last eight games, despite some poor recent results. Toronto has scored only two runs during its ongoing three-game losing streak, and Max Scherzer's meltdown on Friday (seven earned runs in just two-thirds of an inning) raises concerns about his viability as a potential playoff starter."

"Kevin Gausman and Shane Bieber look like the only locks for a postseason rotation. Chris Bassitt may be the likeliest candidate for a third starter role, and rookie Trey Yesavage has suddenly inserted himself into the conversation after an impressive debut start in the majors. Scherzer's vast track record still keeps him in the running, has already been moved to the bullpen, and it looks like Berrios is now viewed as more of a reliever than a starter."

Jose Berrios is moving from a regular starting role into the bullpen for the remainder of the Blue Jays' 2025 campaign, with manager John Schneider calling him an option on days like the 20-1 loss. Berrios can still start but will likely be used as a reliever for the rest of the weekend series in Kansas City. Toronto has an off-day before its final homestand and holds a three-game lead over the Yankees and a five-game lead over the Red Sox in the AL East. A playoff berth is nearly assured, while offensive struggles and Max Scherzer's rough outing raise rotation concerns. Kevin Gausman and Shane Bieber appear locked for the postseason rotation, with Chris Bassitt, rookie Trey Yesavage, Scherzer and Berrios competing for remaining roles. Berrios has a 4.06 ERA across 164 innings this season.

Read at MLB Trade Rumors