Toronto Blue Jays trade offer announced for Tampa Bay Rays 2.35 ERA pitcher
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Victor William
Feb 19, 2026 (7:14)
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Photo credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Garrett Cleavinger is drawing heavy trade interest from the Toronto Blue Jays, sparking a wave of pure optimism for a shutdown bullpen this summer.
Every die-hard supporter remembers the absolute agony of watching late leads evaporate during important stretches last year. That kind of heartbreak takes a massive toll on everyone.
It hurts to see a brilliant starting performance wasted by a tired relief corps in the final innings. A championship roster needs reliable guys ready to close the door.
But the front office is clearly working hard behind the scenes to find a legitimate solution before Opening Day. They know exactly what is missing from this group.
Garrett Cleavinger (Age 31, Drafted Round 3, 2015 by Baltimore) is exactly the kind of battle-tested southpaw this roster requires right now.
This new report perfectly outlines why stealing him away from Tampa Bay would completely change the late-game math for Toronto.
The rugged left-hander posted a spectacular 2.35 ERA last season, blowing away opposing hitters with pure gas and a nasty slider.
That level of dominance is incredibly rare to find on the open trade market at such an affordable price tag. He represents the ultimate high-reward acquisition.
Cleavinger gives the Blue Jays a massive late-inning advantage
We are all absolutely starving for a reliable arm who can march out of the bullpen and shut down a rally without breaking a sweat.
Replacing the frustration of blown saves with the sheer confidence of a proven strikeout artist totally changes the entire clubhouse atmosphere.
He would immediately step into high-leverage situations to offer massive protection for the rest of the Toronto relief staff.
Having a guy who thrives under the blinding lights takes so much pressure off the starting rotation every single night. Starters can finally pitch freely.
Finding his groove after a frustrating injury history shows a beautiful story of personal resilience that fans naturally gravitate toward.
The fact that he is under team control through next season makes this potential move a massive win for the future too.
It is incredibly refreshing to see management actively targeting smart pieces instead of just sitting on their hands. They are preparing for a fight.
Adding this kind of filthy stuff to the mix makes watching the late innings fun and wildly exciting again. The crowd would absolutely love his presence.
We all want to see the front office pull the trigger and lock this deal down before spring games ramp up.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
Toronto Blue Jays have 4 players headed for the trading block
Toronto Blue Jays have 4 players headed for the trading block