Blue Jays pitcher Jose Berrios makes unexpected career announcement
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Victor William
Feb 5, 2026 (3:45 PM)
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Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Jose Berrios is officially suitng up for the World Baseball Classic, turning a heartbreaking rejection into a massive win for Team Puerto Rico.
The news broke late Thursday that "La Makina" has found a way onto the roster despite initial reports declaring him uninsurable.
It is a stunning reversal that has the entire island celebrating, as they feared losing their ace before the tournament even started.
Jose Berrios (Drafted 1st round, 2012 by Minnesota) has always been vocal about his deep pride in representing his homeland on the international stage.
However, there is a major catch attached to this emotional return that fans need to understand.
The right-hander will only be eligible to pitch starting in the second round, likely a compromise to navigate the complex insurance hurdles.
Jose Berrios will play for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, although he is only eligible to play in the 2nd round.
This "uninsurable" label usually ends the conversation immediately, as teams rarely risk millions on unprotected arms.
He is coming off a 2025 season where he posted a 4.17 ERA and logged 166 innings for the Blue Jays.
While those numbers were a dip from his peak, his durability and competitive fire remain elite.
La Makina brings the passion that Puerto Rico desperately needs
Blue Jays fans might be sweating thinking about their $131 million man pitching in high-stress games in March.
But you cannot tell a player like Berrios to stay home when his country calls.
He has been a staple of this tournament, having won silver medals with the team in previous iterations.
His presence in the dugout, even if delayed until the second round, changes the entire vibe of the pitching staff.
The fact that he fought this hard to be cleared shows exactly the kind of leader he is.
If Puerto Rico can survive the group stage, adding a fresh Berrios for the knockout rounds is a terrifying prospect for opponents.
It is a gamble for the Blue Jays, but it is a dream come true for the pitcher.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
Toronto Blue Jays acquire former Pittsburgh Pirates left handed pitcher
Toronto Blue Jays acquire former Pittsburgh Pirates left handed pitcher
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FEVRIER 5|330 ANSWERS Blue Jays pitcher Jose Berrios makes unexpected career announcement Are you worried about Jose Berrios pitching in the WBC due to the insurance issues? | ||
| Yes | 121 | 36.7 % |
| No | 209 | 63.3 % |
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