The Toronto Blue Jays' starting rotation has navigated the last two seasons without significant injuries, but the odds suggest that luck will eventually run out. In such an event, the depth of the pitching staff will be crucial. Jake Bloss, a right-handed pitcher acquired from the Houston Astros in a trade, represents part of this depth. Although not expected to make the opening-day roster, the 23-year-old is viewed as a valuable asset ready to step in if needed.

Bloss had a challenging 2024 season, pitching for five different teams and logging a career-high 105 innings, which tested his endurance. This offseason, the Jays emphasized improving his fitness, noting adjustments to his delivery and pitch arsenal. Bloss's youth and potential have led him to rise in prospect rankings, making him the third-best prospect in the Jays system according to MLB Pipeline. Heading into the new season, a strong performance in Triple-A could position him to fill in seamlessly in the majors.

The Toronto Blue Jays rebounded from consecutive losses with an electrifying 10-7 victory over the Detroit Tigers in a split-squad spring training game. A spectacular eight-run fourth inning proved pivotal, with notable contributions from Daulton Varsho and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., both homering to ignite the offense. Chris Bassitt, starting for the Blue Jays, fanned four batters in a strong 2 2/3 innings, while Tigers starter Reese Olson struggled early but showed promise with two strikeouts.

In the fourth, after the Tigers tied it with a two-run homer from Kerry Carpenter, the Jays unleashed a flood of runs. Alejandro Kirk's sacrifice fly and Ernie Clement's single propelled Toronto into a commanding lead, further extended by Nathan Lukes' double and George Springer's two-run double. Despite a late surge by the Tigers, the Blue Jays held on for the win, showcasing their offensive depth and resilience ahead of the season.

The Toronto Blue Jays secured a thrilling 10-7 victory against the Detroit Tigers during a split-squad spring training match, highlighted by an explosive eight-run fourth inning. Chris Bassitt started strong, striking out four in just 2.2 innings, while Daulton Varsho and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contributed early with solo homers. Despite the Tigers' Kerry Carpenter tying the game with a two-run shot in the fourth, Toronto's response was swift and decisive. The team scored multiple runs from a mix of singles and a sacrifice fly, eventually taking a commanding lead. In a separate game, the Jays fell 6-3 to the New York Yankees, where they struggled to capitalize on opportunities, stranding eight baserunners while being out-hit 11-6.

The Toronto Blue Jays have quietly bolstered their pitching depth by signing veteran Ryan Yarbrough to a minor-league deal. This move provides vital insurance for an aging rotation, particularly as injuries have plagued the team's pitching staff in previous seasons. Yarbrough, who posted a stellar 2.01 ERA last year in over 31 innings, is expected to compete for a spot on the roster this spring.

With the starting rotation potentially featuring José Berríos, Kevin Gausman, Max Scherzer, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis, Yarbrough's addition could impact the deployment of Yariel Rodríguez, who may see time as a middle reliever. The Jays have also struggled with depth in their minor leagues, making Yarbrough’s experience crucial as they look to avoid last year's injury woes.

Zach Pop is in a pivotal year as he hopes to solidify his spot on the Toronto Blue Jays' roster after fluctuating performances over the last two seasons. After a promising start following his trade from the Miami Marlins in 2022, where he posted a 1.89 ERA, he struggled with a 5.81 ERA in 2023-24. With no options left, he must perform this spring training to remain with the team. Both Manager John Schneider and pitching coach Pete Walker see potential in Pop, particularly with his new pitches, the cutter and sweeper.

Meanwhile, there's ongoing discussion about the World Baseball Classic, with Max Scherzer advocating for a schedule adjustment that would allow for greater participation without compromising player health. Furthermore, the Blue Jays are considering a six-man rotation for stretches of the season to manage workload, particularly during packed schedules. As they finalize their roster, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is also on the brink of a long-term contract negotiation ahead of the season.