For some baseball players, Spring Training is an opportunity to gradually get back into the swing of things—literally and figuratively. For others, however, it’s a pressure-packed audition to make the MLB roster.
Here’s who falls into the latter category in Blue Jays camp and has the most to lose with the regular season around the corner.
José Berrios
The Blue Jays have several higher-ceiling options than Berríos on paper. All signs point to the best five starting pitchers getting the rotation spots once everyone is healthy, and Berríos’ uphill climb to prove he’s one of them has already begun.
Once Scherzer deal is complete, Blue Jays will have a number of proven SP options for first several weeks of the season:
Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, Cody Ponce, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber, Max Scherzer, Eric Lauer
John Schneider on making the pieces fit:
Yariel Rodríguez
Whatever issues derailed Rodríguez’s 2025 season at the end don’t appear to have gone away. He has already allowed seven earned runs in just 1 ⅔ innings pitched so far in spring training. His time in Toronto could be over, barring a sharp turnaround.
Tommy Nance
Nance is another relief arm in a precarious position. He recorded an excellent 1.99 ERA in 2025 over his 30 appearances—most of which were in low-leverage situations. Nance never seemed to crack the circle of trust, thus putting his future into question.
Nathan Lukes
A strong spring training could force the Blue Jays to reconsider their plan. Conversely, Lukes could cement his place as a backup with an underwhelming showing. He needs to put his best foot forward.