Photo credit: Dave Nelson-Imagn Images
Jose Berrios is suddenly facing an uncertain future in Toronto after a late-season move to the bullpen sparked friction within the clubhouse.
The right-hander known as "La Makina" has been the definition of durability for the Blue Jays since 2021.
He signed a massive seven-year, $131 million extension to be the face of this pitching staff.
However, a rough 2025 stretch saw his ERA climb to 4.17 as his heater velocity dropped a full mile per hour.
Manager John Schneider made the shocking call to move him to the pen during the September pennant race.
Berrios was reportedly unhappy with the decision and was notably absent during the World Series run.
Now the 31-year-old enters 2026 with a guaranteed $19 million salary and a rotation logjam.
You can see the intensity in his delivery even when the results aren't going his way.
A former first-round pick in 2012, Berrios has logged over 9 years of major league service time.
He has been a model of health, making at least 32 starts in almost every full season of his career.
The Blue Jays and Berrios relationship seems to be at a point of no return which is why he has been linked to so many trade rumors.
Jose Berrios contract status creates tension for Toronto Blue Jays
The mood in Toronto has shifted from admiring his consistency to questioning his high-priced role.
The front office just added Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce to an already deep group of starters.
With rookie Trey Yesavage emerging as a star, there simply aren't enough seats at the table.
Berrios has an opt-out after the 2026 season which adds another layer of complexity to trade talks.
Moving his salary would give Ross Atkins the flexibility to finally lock up Bo Bichette long-term.
Insiders suggest the team is actively listening to offers to see if a rival needs a veteran reset.
The "one idea" for the Jays is simple: the rotation has moved on while the contract remains.
If Berrios doesn't reclaim his top-of-the-rotation form this spring, a trade feels inevitable.
Toronto fans are bracing for a potential goodbye to a pitcher who was once their biggest trade acquisition.
The relationship between the player and the front office is described as "professional" but strained.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
5-player blockbuster trade has the Blue Jays landing a few big pieces from the Cardinals
5-player blockbuster trade has the Blue Jays landing a few big pieces from the Cardinals
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 25|440 ANSWERS Jose Berrios looks to be done with the Toronto Blue Jays Should the Blue Jays trade Jose Berrios before Spring Training? | ||
| Yes | 312 | 70.9 % |
| No | 128 | 29.1 % |
| List of polls | ||