The Toronto Blue Jays traded left-hander Justin Bruihl to the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday, two days after designating him for assignment.

The Guardians are sending unspecified cash considerations to Toronto in exchange.

After losing the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games this fall, the Blue Jays have tinkered with the roster. Their signing of right-hander Tyler Rogers to a three-year, $37 million contract on Monday required Toronto to clear a spot on the 40-man roster, necessitating the departure of Bruihl.

He is out of minor league options.

Bruihl, 28, was like a yo-yo in the 2025 season after signing a one-year, minor league contract with the Blue Jays in March. He shuttled frequently between Toronto and Triple-A Buffalo.

Bruihl’s 2025 in review

In the big leagues last season, Bruihl made 15 relief appearances for Toronto. He didn’t have a decision but pitched to a 5.27 ERA over 13 2/3 innings, giving up 10 runs (eight earned) and striking out 18.

He was on the roster for the American League Division Series against the New York Yankees but didn’t find success. He appeared in one game, amassing an ERA of 54.00, facing four batters and getting just one out. He allowed three hits and two earned runs.

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He made 39 minor league relief appearances in 2025, finishing with a 3.43 ERA, a 3-4 record and three saves. In 42 innings, he allowed 32 hits, walked 16 and struck out 49.

Who is on the staff now?

The Blue Jays’ 40-man roster does not lack pitching numbers. Among the 40 players, 24 are pitchers, supplemented by three catchers, five infielders and eight outfielders.

Toronto likely will carry about half that number on its Opening Day roster but the Blue Jays clearly know their aspirations of a World Series win in 2026 will not come to fruition without a deep pitching staff.

Three of those pitchers are, like Bruihl, left-handed relievers, leaving him on the chopping block. They are long reliever Eric Lauer as well as Brandon Little and Mason Fluharty.

Jays’ 2026 debut

Toronto is scheduled to make its spring training debut on Feb. 21 against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Blue Jays open the regular season with a six-game homestand against the Athletics and the Colorado Rockies.

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