Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Yariel Rodríguez has struggled in spring training so far, but his performances in the 2026 World Baseball Classic suggest he may still have something left to offer.
The right-hander has endured a rough start in Grapefruit League action, posting a 37.80 ERA across two appearances. Despite those struggles, Rodríguez has looked far more comfortable on the international stage with Team Cuba.
Strong outings for Team Cuba
Rodríguez has been impressive in two appearances during the World Baseball Classic, pitching 4.1 scoreless innings while allowing just one hit and striking out six batters.
In one outing against Colombia, he delivered two shutout innings with three strikeouts, helping Cuba secure a 7–4 victory and move to 2–0 in Pool A.
His fastball averaged 94.4 mph and reached 95.8 mph, showing the type of velocity that once made him an intriguing addition for the Blue Jays.
Fighting for a return to Toronto
Rodríguez entered Blue Jays camp this spring as a non-roster invitee, meaning he must earn his way back onto the team’s 40-man roster.
The 29-year-old originally signed with Toronto in 2023 on a five-year, $32 million contract, with the organization envisioning him as a versatile pitcher capable of both starting and relieving.
He largely filled that role during his time with the club, appearing in 87 games with 22 starts, most of which came during the 2024 season.
Ups and downs with the Blue Jays
While Rodríguez showed flashes of effectiveness — finishing with a 3.83 ERA and 4.37 FIP across those appearances — his performance became inconsistent at times.
He was included on Toronto’s ALDS and ALCS postseason rosters in 2025, but struggled in the playoffs, allowing a 10.13 ERA over four appearances. As a result, he was left off the World Series roster.
Following the season, the Blue Jays designated him for assignment. After clearing waivers, he remained with the organization as a non-roster player heading into spring training.
Advanced metrics reveal mixed results
Rodríguez’s statistics have often been a mixed bag.
His 22.7% strikeout rate and 11.1% walk rate highlight issues with command, while he has also struggled at times to generate ground balls or induce hitters to chase pitches outside the strike zone.
Still, he has demonstrated an ability to limit hard contact, which has helped him remain competitive in many appearances.
Path back to the majors remains difficult
Even with his encouraging WBC performance, Rodríguez still faces an uphill battle to return to Toronto’s roster.
The Blue Jays currently possess significant pitching depth, with multiple rotation candidates and newly added relievers competing for limited bullpen spots.
Because of that depth, Rodríguez is widely expected to begin the season with Triple-A Buffalo unless he finishes spring training or the World Baseball Classic with an exceptional run.
WBC performance keeps him relevant
While his future with Toronto remains uncertain, Rodríguez’s strong showing for Cuba has at least kept him in the conversation.
For a pitcher who was outrighted off the 40-man roster just months ago, remaining on the Blue Jays’ radar represents a meaningful step toward another opportunity in the major leagues.
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