Toronto Blue Jays Pursue Bullpen Enhancements Ahead of Trade Deadline

The Toronto Blue Jays are actively seeking to bolster their bullpen as the Major League Baseball (MLB) trade deadline approaches. As of July 28, 2025, the team, which boasts the best record in baseball at 63-43, is reportedly 'turning over every stone' in the relief market, according to Mitch Bannon from The Athletic. This strategic move comes as teams that are contending for playoff positions typically augment their rosters with additional bullpen arms before the deadline.

Despite a solid overall performance, Toronto's bullpen, currently holding a collective earned run average (ERA) of 3.66, which ranks seventh in the majors, has faced challenges. The recent injuries to key relievers Yimi García, Nick Sandlin, Ryan Burr, and Paxton Schultz have strained the team's depth. Jeff Hoffman, now in his first season as a full-time closer, has a 4.78 ERA, although he has seen improvement with a 3.00 ERA since June. The Blue Jays may consider acquiring a more established closer while shifting Hoffman into a setup role, or they could opt to enhance their bullpen by adding talented pitchers regardless of their closing experience.

The team’s recent struggles, including the inconsistency of Chad Green, who has a 4.85 ERA and an 18.6% strikeout rate, further underline the need for reinforcements. Green, who is making $10.5 million this year and is an impending free agent, may not secure his position on the roster without a significant turnaround.

With the trade deadline looming, the Blue Jays are eyeing multiple candidates, including closers like Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals, who is an impending free agent, David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Jhoan Durán, who is likely less available due to his contract status. This interest is amplified by the recent administrative leave of Emmanuel Clase, which has impacted the overall trade market dynamics.

Toronto's discussions with other clubs will largely depend on their willingness to meet asking prices, particularly given their farm system's ranking in the bottom third of the league. While the Blue Jays have developed several promising prospects this season, their ability to reduce the prospect cost of acquisitions may require them to take on additional salary. With a current competitive balance tax number estimated at $278 million, just below the third threshold of $281 million, careful financial management is crucial, as exceeding this limit would push their top pick in the 2026 draft back ten spots.

Both Mark Shapiro, the President of Baseball Operations, and Ross Atkins, the General Manager, face contract expirations soon, with Shapiro's contract ending after the 2025 season and Atkins' after 2026. The pressure to perform is palpable, as the Blue Jays have made playoff appearances in recent years but have experienced early exits. Following a disappointing last season, the team is poised to make bold moves in the coming days.

In addition to bullpen upgrades, the Blue Jays have also expressed interest in potential starting pitchers, including Dylan Cease, Zac Gallen, and Mitch Keller. As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on enhancing the team’s competitiveness for the postseason.

This proactive strategy reflects the Blue Jays’ commitment to sustaining their current momentum and improving their chances for a deeper playoff run. The coming days will be critical as the team navigates the trade market while balancing financial constraints and roster needs.