The Toronto Blue Jays have been looking to make a splash in free agency for a while.
They were reportedly among the finalists for Shohei Ohtani and also pursued other major names.
It’s not like they have been inactive, but on Wednesday, they completed what could be one of the biggest and most underrated free-agent moves of the offseason.
“Source confirms: Blue Jays in agreement with Cuban free-agent RHP Yariel Rodríguez. Deal is pending a physical, and hurdles also remain with his immigration. First with agreement: @francysromeroFR,” insider Ken Rosenthal tweeted.
Source confirms: Blue Jays in agreement with Cuban free-agent RHP Yariel Rodríguez. Deal is pending a physical, and hurdles also remain with his immigration. First with agreement: @francysromeroFR. Wrote about Jays and Rodríguez yesterday: https://t.co/rXkkgSJRt5
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 17, 2024
They agreed to terms with talented Cuban pitcher Yariel Rodriguez.
The last time Rodriguez pitched professionally, with the Chunichi Dragons in Japan in 2022, he posted a minuscule 1.15 ERA in 54.2 innings.
However, the fireballer (his fastball can reach the triple digits) also participated in the 2023 World Baseball Classic with Cuba.
He left a 2.45 ERA in 7.1 frames, with six walks and 10 strikeouts.
There, he showed the world the kind of talent he has.
He didn’t pitch in Japan in 2023 because he asked for his release from the Dragons.
He unilaterally left them, looking for an MLB contract, but the Dragons claimed his contract with them was still valid.
He was granted his release in October, so he became free to sign with an MLB team.
It appears the Jays are going to be that team.
Toronto will likely give him a chance to compete for a starting spot in the rotation.
However, it’s possible that the bullpen is the long-term home of the soon-to-be 27-year-old righty.
In any case, Rodriguez will be an impactful signing for the Jays.
NEXT:
Blue Jays GM Reveals Roster Plans This Offseason
