The Toronto Blue Jays have made a significant addition to their pitching staff with the signing of Cuban pitcher Yariel Rodríguez to a five-year contract worth $32 million. The 26-year-old right-hander posted an impressive 1.15 ERA in 56 relief appearances for the Chunichi Dragons in Japan’s Central League in 2022, recording 60 strikeouts and 18 walks in 54 2/3 innings. Rodríguez also had a strong showing for Japan in last year’s World Baseball Classic, with a 2.45 ERA in 7 1/3 innings.
In his three seasons with the Dragons, Rodríguez compiled a 10-10 record and a 3.03 ERA, along with six saves. Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins expressed his excitement about adding Rodríguez to the team, highlighting his diverse arsenal, athleticism, and ability to generate swings and misses. Atkins believes that Rodríguez will contribute to the team’s pitching staff in various roles.
In order to make room for Rodríguez on the roster, Dominican utility man Otto López was placed on assignment. The addition of Rodríguez is expected to bolster the Blue Jays’ pitching staff and provide a significant boost to their bullpen.