Jeff Hoffman showing signs he could regain closer role for Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays have been waiting for Jeff Hoffman to return to form. His performance Thursday night may be a sign of hope.

Hoffman was called upon to close out the Blue Jays' 2-0 victory over the Yankees as closer Louie Varland had pitched on the previous two nights. He proved to be up to the task, striking out two batters in a clean ninth inning to earn the save. It was Hoffman's first save since April 20.

There had been questions surrounding Hoffman after he allowed the game-tying home run to Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas in the ninth inning of Game and 7 of the World Series, with the Dodgers eventually winning in the 11th inning. He appeared to have quieted any doubters with a strong start to the season as he posted a 2.35 ERA and a 1.304 WHiP over 7 2/3 innings in his first eight appearances, issuing a walk while striking out 17 batters.

Thursday performance could be springboard for Jeff Hoffman, Toronto Blue Jays

However, Hoffman's performance took a nose dive over his next four appearances. He allowed seven runs on eight hits and four walks over three innings, albeit with seven strikeouts. Hoffman was removed from the closer role, framing the decision as a way for Hoffman to reset without the pressure of the ninth inning.

He has been closer to being the reliever the Blue Jays had coveted since. Hoffman had allowed just two runs on 13 hits and two walks over 10.1 innings over his previous 11 appearances entering Thursday, striking out 11 batters. The Blue Jays had used Hoffman as a setup man, easing him back into higher leverage situations.

Varland has been a revelation as the Blue Jays closer and is not showing any signs of relinquishing his role. However, if Hoffman is back to form, he could be ready to reclaim his role should Varland falter.