MLB Rumors: Blue Jays To Promote Prized Offseason Acquisition

The Toronto Blue Jays are stirring up excitement in the baseball world as they prepare to summon their highly anticipated offseason acquisition, Yariel Rodriguez, to the major leagues.

Rodriguez, a coveted right-handed pitcher signed to a five-year, $32 million contract, has been the subject of fervent anticipation among fans and pundits alike.

Despite a brief setback during Spring Training due to back spasms, Rodriguez has showcased his talent and potential in recent outings, demonstrating his readiness for the big stage.

News: Yariel Rodríguez will be called up by the Blue Jays this weekend, sources confirm @francysromeroFR report. @MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) April 12, 2024

With impressive performances in both spring training and triple-A Buffalo, Rodriguez has solidified his case for a major league opportunity. His dominant displays on the mound, highlighted by impeccable control and a knack for inducing strikeouts, underscore the Blue Jays' confidence in his abilities.

In 6.1 innings at the Triple-A level this season, Rodriguez faced 24 batters, allowing one hit, three walks, zero runs, and racking up an impressive 10 strikeouts.

The Toronto Blue Jays are calling up 🇨🇺RHP Yariel Rodríguez (27).

In 6.1 innings in Triple A he stuck out 10, allowed a hit, 3 walks with no runs.

He pitched 5 innings in Spring Training striking out 3, allowed 2 hits, a run and 3 walks.#MLBCuba

pic.twitter.com/KsULnPCbH4

— CubanBaseballZone 🇨🇺⚾️🌎 (@CubanBaseballZN) April 12, 2024

As Rodriguez prepares to don the Blue Jays uniform and make his debut, expectations are high for the impact he can make on the team's pitching rotation and their quest for postseason contention.

Rodriguez, who defected from Cuba and showcased his talents at the World Baseball Classic, had an impressive stint in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league. In his most recent season with the Chunichi Dragons in 2022, he achieved a commendable 1.15 ERA over 54.2 innings pitched.

Now, it's time to see if the 27-year-old can translate that success to the MLB. Photo Credit: Dave Nelson-USA TODAY Sports