Blue Jays Add Former All-Star To Patch Thin Rotation
Per MLB.com's Keegan Matheson, Lorenzen already had a locker set up in Toronto's clubhouse hours before the move was formally announced.
A Rough Season That Still Comes Cheap
The results this year haven't been kind to Lorenzen.
He went 3-11 with a 7.08 ERA across 26 games for Colorado before his release, a steep drop from his track record over the previous four seasons.
From 2022 through 2025, Lorenzen combined for 522.2 innings of 4.10 ERA ball across stints with the Angels, Tigers, Phillies, Rangers, and Royals, including a 2023 All-Star selection and a no-hitter for Philadelphia that same year.
OFFICIAL: We've signed RHP Michael Lorenzen to a one-year deal. He has reported to the team and will be active tonight.
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) August 27, 2026
Additionally, RHP Chad Dallas has been optioned to Triple-A and OF Jonatan Clase has been transferred to the 60-day IL. pic.twitter.com/i086bGS0Tq
The financial terms make him an easy add regardless of the recent numbers. Lorenzen will earn a prorated share of the league minimum, with Colorado still on the hook for the rest of his $8 million salary for the season.
Toronto Needed Him Right Now
The Blue Jays are dealing with real rotation strain, currently down to four healthy starters after injuries to Shane Bieber and rookie Trey Yesavage.
The staff badly needs someone who can eat innings behind Max Scherzer, and Lorenzen's recent track record as a swingman capable of both starting and relieving makes him a fit for whatever role Toronto needs filled first.
Blue Jays signed have signed RHP Michael Lorenzen to a one year deal. Here is what he had to say about how the deal came about: pic.twitter.com/IVeDoY7OrH
— Lindsay Dunn (@LindsayDunnTV) August 27, 2026
A 34-year-old who's played for eight organizations across 12 seasons, Lorenzen gives the Blue Jays low-cost pitching depth as they push through the stretch run.
