Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Brendon Little. John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

It's time to hit the panic button on Blue Jays' Brendon Little

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Apr 4, 2026 5:49 PM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays now sit at .500 with a record of 4-4, looking to avoid getting swept by the Chicago White Sox.

They started the season going 3-0, and a continuous pattern has been linked to lackluster pitching from reliever Brendon Little. He's shown issues of control, including costing the team runs.

The Blue Jays are coming off finishing in the World Series in 2025. These losses have been tough following the non-contending MLB teams like the Colorado Rockies and the Athletics.

But the Blue Jays have had a history of struggles against below-average teams. With a combination of injuries and errors its been a rough early-season start for the Blue Jays.

Brendon Little has immediately given the lead back to the White Sox here in the 6th.

Brutal turn after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. finally broke the #BlueJays through in the top half. pic.twitter.com/zlgBDxL2gY
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) April 4, 2026

Command issues continue to strike with Brendon Little

The Blue Jays would benefit from sending Little down, as he has not put on a strong performance, weakening the bullpen and costing the team games. The left-hander has struggled to record outs, culminating in a high ERA (18.90) in the season following giving up runs late in games.

He is undergoing lingering command issues, where he is having a difficult time finding the strike zone. In addition to giving up hits in high-leverage situations. Little had a strong 2025 season, sporting a 4-2 record with a 3.03 ERA across 68.1 innings.

Little's struggles commenced at the end of last season. This included a blown save that occurred in the ALCS. Additionally, a loss in the World Series.

While being utilized in high-pressure situations, he has not been capable of recording 1,2,3 innings and holding onto leads. This has signaled a potential demotion to the minors. This would surely help to rediscover his form and boost his confidence.

He has not positioned himself as a high-leverage reliever the way Schneider has continued to use him. The Blue Jays have other options in the bullpen, and they can also call up Patrick Corbin, who was recently signed by the Blue Jays.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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