Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The biggest news of free agency so far has been the Toronto Blue Jays signing Dylan Cease, but what does that mean for the other pitchers, at least for Eric Lauer he is still very valuable for the Blue Jays.
Lauer proved to be a solid reliever after the Blue Jays acquired Max Scherzer, which moved Lauer to the bullpen and despite rumors of him being moved, it looks like he will stay put.
Eric Lauer is still needed despite signing of Dylan Cease for Blue Jays.
Ben Wrixton of Blue Jays Nation reported on the importance of Lauer, despite rumours he not be with the Blue Jays next season. Lauer's versatility is what makes him so valuable, he can be solid reliever and even start in some situations.
"The lefty stepped into the rotation early in the year when the Blue Jays desperately needed quality innings, then moved to the bullpen following the return of Max Scherzer and the acquisition of Shane Bieber. He remained in that role through the playoffs, where he threw four-and-two-thirds scoreless frames against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 18-inning marathon that was game three of the World Series. "-Wrixton
Lauer will have a similar role to last year, but the Blue Jays could end up putting him up in more high pressure situations. He has more composure than Mason Fluharty and Brendon Little, and should be considered higher on the totem pole than both of them. Lauer could be also be a 6th starter option in case one starter goes down.
"Cease has a propensity for short outings, Trey Yesavage will need his workload managed in his first full season, Shane Bieber hasn't had a healthy year since 2022, and José Berrios is in decline. The importance of having Lauer as an insurance policy cannot be overstated if any of those four need time off. "-Wrixton
The Blue Jays are shaping up to have an excellent pitching lineup, it was their only weakness last season, and if they continue to improve upon it. Another incredible season could be on the horizon.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 29|1428 ANSWERS New update on Eric Lauer's future with the Blue Jays Will Eric Lauer end up as a starter for the Toronto Blue Jays next season? | ||
| Yes | 810 | 56.7 % |
| No | 618 | 43.3 % |
| List of polls | ||