Examining the Blue Jays' pitching depth heading into next season

"The Blue Jays' starting pitching has taken a hit, especially after Bassitt and Scherzer's departures, with the team ranking only 16th in starting pitching depth, according to Fangraphs. While Shane Bieber's contract opt-in this winter helped fill some holes in the rotation, the Blue Jays still need to find at least one reliable, workhorse-type starter to stabilize the pitching staff with the current open fifth spot."

"As of now, the Blue Jays' projected rotation for 2026 would feature Shane Bieber, José Berríos, Kevin Gausman and Trey Yesavage, given their dependable performances in the past year. The team will most likely add at least one more starting pitcher, but before that signing takes place, Bowden Francis-so long as he can return from his long injury stint- and Eric Lauer will be given a chance to prove their spot in the rotation."

"Yesavage will still be a wild card, since he is still young in his big league career and may have to move up and down the minors or the bullpen, depending on how his performance unfolds in 2026. The best-case scenario for the Blue Jays would be bringing in at least one consistent starter, such as Dylan Cease or Ranger Suarez, this offseason, to strengthen their starting pitching depth."

The Blue Jays saw starting pitching depth weaken after the departures of Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer, leaving the staff ranked 16th by Fangraphs. Shane Bieber's contract opt-in adds stability, but the rotation still needs a durable, workhorse starter to fill an open fifth spot. Projected rotation pieces include Shane Bieber, José Berríos, Kevin Gausman and Trey Yesavage, with Bowden Francis and Eric Lauer given opportunities to compete for roles if healthy. Yesavage remains a developmental wild card who might shift between minors, bullpen and rotation. Pursuing a consistent starter like Dylan Cease or Ranger Suarez would significantly strengthen depth, while prospects Jake Bloss, Adam Macko, Ricky Tiedemann and Louis Varland provide internal options.

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