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Toronto Blue Jays DFA star reliever


Victor William
Dec 6, 2025  (3:06 PM)
Blue Jays DFA Yariel Rodriguez
Photo credit: Toronto Star

The Toronto Blue Jays have designated star reliever Yariel Rodriguez for assignment to make room on their 40 man roster.

There were rumours recently that the Blue Jays were looking at a possible trade involving Rodriguez which might still happen after this latest roster move.

Blue Jays DFA Yariel Rodriguez

The Blue Jays announced quite the shocking roster move this afternoon when they decided to DFA Rodriguez to make a room on their 40 man roster for new moves to come.
The Blue Jays have designated right-handed pitcher Yariel Rodriguez for assignment, per sources.

He posted 1.4 WAR out of the bullpen in 2025 with 73.0 innings, 66 strikeouts, and a 3.08 ERA.
This move comes as a bit of a surprise since Rodriguez signed a deal only two years ago and put up solid numbers this season out of the bullpen with a 3.08 ERA in 73 innings pitched with a total of 66 strikeouts.
While the move comes as a bit of a surprise to some others, saw it coming since Rodriguez struggled quite a bit on the mound following the All-Star break with a 4.21 ERA.
Yariel Rodriguez post All Star Break:

25.2 IP
4.21 ERA
4.93 FIP
15.3 BB%/16.7 K%
1.7 K-BB%
-0.4 fWAR

• Didn't miss bats at all.
• Walked too many guys.
• Got barreled.
• FB velo dropped 1.3 MPH.

Just not good.
The Blue Jays will either now look to trade Rodriguez if not, he will be placed on waivers where he can be claimed by another team.
There is a chance, however, that Rodriguez end up clearing waivers and will most likely elect free agency after that.
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Toronto Blue Jays DFA star reliever

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