Blue Jays Make Roster Announcement After Loss to Astros

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Michael G. DeFrancisco | Last updated Apr 23, 2025 4:06 PM ET

Following a loss to the Houston Astros on Tuesday, the Toronto Blue Jays have started the season at 12-12 through their first 24 games of the 2025 season. After a good start, Toronto finds itself in third place in the AL East division behind the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox.

Much like their overall record, the Blue Jays' bullpen has been middle of the pack. They currently rank 14th in the Majors in ERA with a 3.68 mark. Additionally, they have seen some roster turnover in recent days to solidify their bullpen, and it seems they may be losing one of its previous members.

After being designated for assigning, right-handed relief pitcher Jacob Barnes has cleared waivers and elected free agency. This means he will likely be departing from the Blue Jays organization.

“Blue Jays announce that Jacob Barnes cleared waivers and elected free agency," MLB.com's Keegan Matheson wrote via his X account.

#BlueJays announce that Jacob Barnes cleared waivers and elected free agency.
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) April 22, 2025

The ten-year veteran did not pitch well for Toronto this season. In his eight innings of work, he has allowed eight runs for a 9.00 ERA. He has also struck out just five batters as compared to three walks. His return to the Blue Jays netted him a 1.625 WHIP, which was not good enough to maintain his roster spot.

The former 14th-round pick has pitched for six teams since 2021, including the Nationals, Cardinals, Yankees, Tigers, and Mets. The 35-year-old will look to join his seventh team as his services may be valuable to a team in need of bullpen help.

The right-hander has accumulated -1.1 career bWAR and has a lifelong ERA of 4.79 in 334 Major League games pitched.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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