Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman (23) delivers a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers in the ninth inning at Rogers Centre.Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Blue Jays Add To IL, Obvious Issue Worsened For 2025 Playoffs

Originally posted on Stadium Rant | By Howe Fresh | Last updated Aug 31, 2025 2:12 PM ET

Everything has been turning up roses for the Toronto Blue Jays recently. They have a top-three OPS and the best record in the AL East. The late-season resurgence of starting pitchers Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber has elevated fans’ excitement. While Canadians have plenty to be hopeful about, a massive name hitting the IL points out a season-long glaring issue. Stats and rankings provided by MLB.

Blue Jays Injury Update

Sportsnet reports that relief pitcher Yimi Garcia is officially out for the season, requiring surgery to clean up scar tissue in his elbow. “It sucks. Sucks for him, sucks for us, but it just kind of got to that point,” said Schneider. “He’ll be ready for spring training, which is good.”

After a dominant start to Garcia’s time in Toronto, injury has gotten the best of the 35-year-old veteran. Fans have been hoping for a return to old form, as the bullpen is shallow enough as it is. The starting rotation has seen a spark, but the relievers currently rank 17th in team ERA. The Blue Jays struggle to find reliable relief in high-leverage situations, including save opportunities.

The Wart On The Blue Jays

The team acquired Jeff Hoffman this offseason to be the closer and has been steadfast in this regard. His ERA has been hovering around five for most of the year, which includes seven blown saves and 14 home runs, as of the morning of August 31, 2025. Things have only gotten worse over the last 30 days, which include a 6.55 ERA and 1.73 WHIP. The team had better figure out something unique for their pitching staff if they want to go on a run. The relievers lack anyone capable of picking up the slack, with a lackluster 4.13 ERA on the season.

Difficult Decisions Ahead For Blue Jays

The Blue Jays’ top three in the starting rotation have been the same core for years, but is loyalty enough to start them over better performers? Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Chris Bassitt have carried the starting staff, but find themselves fighting with Scherzer and Bieber for a spot in a three-man playoff rotation. Based on recent performance and the window for success, Gausman seems in line to join the elite new-hires.

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End Of My Toronto Blue Jays Rant

Toronto needs a unique plan, as they don’t have anyone coming out of the pen that truly instills fear in batters. The bats are holding up their end of the bargain, and the health and timing of the starters have worked out great. Teams will be looking to knock their starters out of games; do they have a plan if a start doesn’t go as planned in the playoffs?

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This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

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