Blue Jays DFA Lauer with Rodriguez to take over his role in rotation

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Eric Lauer. John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Blue Jays DFA Eric Lauer with Yariel Rodriguez to take over his role in rotation

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated May 11, 2026 4:39 PM ET

Following continuous struggles from Eric Lauer in the rotation, the Toronto Blue Jays have designated him for assignment (DFA).

To replace his spot in the rotation, the Blue Jays have called up Yariel Rodriguez from Triple-A Buffalo.

Rodriguez was cruising in Triple-A with a 2.63 ERA and 1.17 WHIP across 13.2 innings. The Blue Jays had initially taken Rodriguez off the 40-man roster in December 2025.

Lauer's May 10 meltdown performance was the last straw for the 30-year-old after giving up six earned runs, including three home runs. On the season, he's compiled a poor 1-5 start and 6.69 ERA.

News: The #BlueJays have designated Eric Lauer for assignment.

Yariel Rodríguez takes his spot on the roster.
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) May 11, 2026

Blue Jays continue to shake up rotation

Lauer's frustrations with securing a spot in the rotation, followed by his dissatisfaction with having pitchers open in front of him, shed light on his struggles.

His discontent could have likely contributed to his poor performance, but his frustrations also made him appear unwilling to be a team player. While Lauer upheld a strong performance in 2025, he was never able to find his rhythm.

But his troubles on the mound were also linked to command issues, giving up the long ball and giving up walks, as well as his inability to escape high-leverage situations.

The Blue Jays continued to utilize him due to a banged-up rotation and lack of pitching depth. Thankfully, Rodriguez can help balance the rotation until Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Max Scherzer return.

Rodriguez has experience pitching as both a starter and a reliever, which makes him a strong fit. He worked as a long reliever in 2025 with high potential to provide durability.

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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