Toronto Blue Jays plan on giving Jeff Hoffman a new role
Photo credit: Sportsnet
Jeff Hoffman began his MLB career as a starter before moving to a bullpen role. Heading into last season, he had only two saves to his name, but added 10 more in 2024 while pitching for the Phillies, who opted for a closer-by-committee approach rather than naming a set finisher.
Blues Jays pitcher Jeff Hoffman embracing next steps towards a closer's role.
David Singh from Sportsnet writes that when the right-hander hit free agency this past offseason, it quickly became clear in talks with the Blue Jays that he'd have a real shot at locking down the closer role.
"Hoffman, who signed a three-year, $33 million deal, says he didn't try to do anything different in the winter to prepare. By now, the 32-year-old has a keen understanding of his repertoire and who he is as a pitcher. He simply aimed to build off his success from last season, when he posted a 2.17 ERA with 89 strikeouts across 66.1 innings." -Singh
Hoffman's influence has been evident since joining the Blue Jays. Manager John Schneider has spoken highly of his confidence in the right-hander, even turning to him for multiple two-inning outings this season.
"You know he's good, but what we've learned is how he really handles situations that are tough. And it's been really impressive. There's been a few multiple-inning situations that are not easy, and a sign of an elite reliever is when you can do that in pressure situations and really focus on one pitch. He's been pretty much as advertised, probably by a little bit more, with how he navigates all those tough spots." -Schneider
Singh also writes that the right-hander has notched seven saves and compiled a stellar 1.10 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 16.1 innings. A closer look reveals progress across the board compared to last season, though it comes with the usual small sample size disclaimer.
"Hoffman's 40.7 strikeout rate in 2025 is up from 33.6 per cent last season, while his walk rate is down to 1.9 per cent from 6.0. His expected slugging percentage has plummeted to .206 from .343, and his hard-hit percentage has fallen to 32.3 per cent from 42." -Singh
And when it comes to taking the next step in his career, Hoffman has undoubtedly risen to the occasion. We'll see if he can continue to do so.
| POLL | ||
MAI 5 | 1718 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays plan on giving Jeff Hoffman a new role Do you think Blue Jays pitcher Jeff Hoffman can continue his strong play throughout the season? | ||
| yes | 1382 | 80.4 % |
| no | 336 | 19.6 % |
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