Blue Jays officially announce the signing of Tyler Rogers and designate Justin Bruihl for assignment

Rogers, whose free-agent contract includes a $12 million vesting option ($1 million buyout) in 2029, had spent his entire professional career with the San Francisco Giants before being traded to the New York Mets before last season’s trade deadline. His ’29 option becomes guaranteed if he meets at least one of these two criteria: log 110 appearances combined from 2027-28 or 60 in ’28.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Blue Jays designated left-hander Justin Bruihl for assignment.

Bruihl moved back and forth between the majors and triple-A Buffalo several times this past season, appearing in 15 games (13.2 innings) with Toronto and pitching to a 5.27 ERA and 4.16 FIP, striking out 18 batters and walking three batters. He also made one appearance during the ALDS, allowing a pair of earned runs on three hits – including a home run – in Game 2 against the New York Yankees.

The 28-year-old left-hander could be claimed via waivers or acquired via trade by another team. If he is released, the club may decide to send him straight to the minors.

Rogers has been a workhorse in the Bay Area, leading all Major League relievers in appearances (374) and innings pitched (378.1) since 2021. Last season, the 34-year-old right-hander posted career bests in appearances (81), ERA (1.98), FIP (2.88), OPP AVG (0.227), ground-ball rate (62.1 percent) and matched career highs. fWAR (1.3) – all excluding the 17-game sample size from his rookie campaign.

Rogers, who has the lowest vertical release point (15 feet) of any major league pitcher, should create a nightmare for opponents next season if he replaces Trey Yesavage, whose 7-foot release point was the highest in ’25.