Blue Jays acquire high-strikeout reliever from Dodgers

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Blue Jays acquire high-strikeout reliever Jose Rodriguez from Dodgers

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Sep 1, 2026 3:07 PM ET

The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired right-handed reliever Jose Rodriguez from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for 20-year-old Dominican right-handed pitcher Sebastian Rodriguez.

The former Dodgers high-strikeout reliever is 25 years old and owns a 4-3 record with a 3.38 ERA across 34 2/3 innings at Triple-A Oklahoma City this season. He has a 6-foot-6 frame, and his slider peaks in the mid-80s, while his changeup also generates a ton of swing-and-miss.

While he still hasn't pitched in the majors, his promising performance is deserving of a call-up in September, as he possesses 40-man roster readiness.

He dominated with 46 strikeouts, an 11.0 K/9, a 42.9 percent ground-ball rate, a 3.88 FIP and a .310 BABIP. In addition, he was ranked as the Dodgers' No. 29 prospect in 2025 and has a 65-grade changeup with a fastball that peaks at 97 mph; with his tall frame, he gets a good extension (over seven feet).

Blue Jays Acquire José Rodríguez From Dodgers https://t.co/bHU1ZcJO7l pic.twitter.com/nQEDkbhu3i
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) September 1, 2026

Mexican reliever Jose Rodriguez seeking to make MLB debut

Whether or not Rodriguez will make his debut this season is uncertain, but he will without question be a vital piece in the Blue Jays bullpen next season. However, considering the Blue Jays lack depth in the pen due to an injury-riddled season, he could be an important part of their run to the postseason this year if they give him a chance.

With Yimi Garcia's season shut down due to thoracic outlet surgery and his career also in jeopardy, acquiring Rodriguez was a smart move for the Blue Jays. The team is also still awaiting Joe Mantiply's return. He performed his third rehab game on Monday.

Rodriguez's six seasons of experience in the minors also make him more than eligible for a promotion. He was also Rule 5 eligible last winter, but his high walk rate has been an area of concern that has delayed his promotion to the big leagues. Across two teams in the minors this season, he has given up 20 walks but only one home run with a 1.30 WHIP, which is still encouraging.

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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