Getty Blue Jays manager John Schneider is managing a pitching team that’s going through some changes as the offseason wraps up. The Toronto Blue Jays might be facing a situation of having too many good options. Insider Keegan Matheson from MLB. com mentioned the “musical chairs” dilemma regarding their crowded starting rotation and bullpen, saying that “something’s got to give … eventually.” Manager John Schneider has the task of fitting six starters into a five-man rotation, with 31-year-old right-hander José Berríos looking like he might be left out. However, Matheson noted that “the Blue Jays aren’t eager to make a move,” and they’re not keen on trading prospects just to clear salary. For now? They’ll see how things unfold in February.
Changes Among Blue Jays Pitchers
This pitching confusion – which could actually be seen as a positive problem – comes after the Blue Jays allowed future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer to leave in free agency, along with reliable pitcher Chris Bassitt. They also signed ace Dylan Cease, a 30-year-old right-hander, for seven years at $210 million. As spring training approaches in less than three weeks, the Blue Jays are still making moves to strengthen their pitching staff – not just for 2026 but also for future seasons. This week, they made an interesting low-cost signing involving an unusual pitcher that didn’t get much attention initially. Although details were scarce, the Blue Jays confirmed this signing on their official transactions list.
A Unique Addition at 19 Years Old
The Blue Jays officially announced on Wednesday that they’ve signed 27 international free agents, including 13 players from Venezuela. The 2026 IFA group includes 11 players from the Dominican Republic, two from Cuba, and one from the Netherlands – although Celwin Hurkmans from the Netherlands was actually signed in 2025 and technically belongs to last year’s international roster. Among those coming from Venezuela is one lesser-known prospect who caught attention – not necessarily due to his skills since there are no public scouting reports available about him. Manuel Parra stands out because of his unique traits – including his signing bonus of just $10,000. Additionally, Parra is listed as a switch hitter; while it may not seem crucial for a pitcher these days with the universal designated hitter rule in place, it opens up possibilities for him potentially being used as a two-way player later on.
