Toronto Blue Jays plan on using Louis Varland in interesting new role
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Victor William
Feb 20, 2026 (8:29 PM)
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Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Louis Varland set an all-time MLB record with 15 postseason appearances to carry the Toronto Blue Jays within outs of a title.
The 28-year-old right-hander became John Schneider’s absolute security blanket during a magical October run that fans will never forget.
He broke the previous record of 14 appearances held by former Jay Brandon Morrow (2017) and Paul Assenmacher (1997).
Varland (Drafted Round 15, 2019 by Minnesota) arrived at the trade deadline and immediately transformed into a high-leverage weapon.
The Minnesota native admitted the trade caught him off guard, but he quickly fell in love with the energy north of the border.
He posted a stellar 2.97 ERA and 1.20 WHIP over 72.2 total innings during a regular season split between two teams.
His ability to pitch in almost every single playoff game proves he has the "rubber arm" this team desperately needs.
The ultimate fire extinguisher in the pen
It feels so good to finally have a reliever who wants the ball every single night without hesitation.
Varland relies on an exploding 98.1 mph four-seamer and a nasty knuckle curve that leaves hitters completely lost.
He spent this winter tinkering with a new "right-on-right" changeup to make himself even more dangerous in 2026.
With Yimi Garcia returning from injury, the Blue Jays now possess a terrifying back end of the bullpen.
Louis finished his historic postseason with 17 strikeouts and a 1.06 WHIP over 16 intense innings of work.
He is not eligible for free agency until 2031, meaning he is a foundational piece for years to come.
Schneider plans to use him in a versatile setup role where he can extinguish fires in any inning.
The confidence he gained from staring down the Dodgers in the World Series will be massive this spring.
He went 4-3 last season and proved that his transition from a starter to a full-time reliever was a masterstroke.
Toronto fans have found a new hero who thrives when the pressure is at its absolute highest.
The 2026 season is about unfinished business, and Varland is ready to lead the charge back to the trophy.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
Toronto Blue Jays are not done trading as there is a new offer on the table with the Cardinals
Toronto Blue Jays are not done trading as there is a new offer on the table with the Cardinals
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FEVRIER 20|301 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays plan on using Louis Varland in interesting new role Is Louis Varland the most important piece of the Blue Jays bullpen for 2026? | ||
| Yes | 214 | 71.1 % |
| No | 87 | 28.9 % |
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