Shane Bieber’s Decision To Opt In Invigorates the Blue Jays' Rotation

[Bryan Jaeger]

After their heartbreaking loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays' offseason has already started exceptionally well. Their starting rotation had three strong pitchers returning: Kevin Gausman, rookie sensation Trey Yesavage, and José Berríos. On the back end, RosterResource had Eric Lauer and Bowden Francis projected to finish out the rotation. This projected rotation made finding at least a back-end starter a priority. However, the team received great news on Tuesday night.

Shane Bieber elected to stay in Toronto for another season by opting in to his $16 million player option. If Bieber had opted out, he'd have received a $4 million buyout. This decision gives the Blue Jays a one-time ace, who pitched well in his short 2025 season. The righty made his debut this year on August 22 due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery, which he went for after only two starts in 2024.

Bieber made seven regular season starts in 2025, posting a 3.57 ERA and 37 strikeouts over 40 1/3 innings. In the playoffs, he pitched in five games (one in relief), posting a 3.86 ERA and striking out 18 over 18 2/3 innings. These outings included a pivotal Game 3 start in the ALCS, when the Blue Jays were down 0-2 in the series. He gave up a two-run home run to Julio Rodríguez in the top of the first. Then, over the next five innings, he allowed only two hits and zero runs, helping the Blue Jays secure a win to get back into the series. Unfortunately, what fans will best remember is the Game 7, 11th-inning home run he gave up to Will Smith in relief during the World Series. That home run proved to be the series-winner for the Dodgers.

This arrangement could prove to be perfect for both sides. The 30-year-old Bieber could have earned more by opting out. However, he would have likely secured a short two- or three-year deal, given the uncertainty of how he would perform over an entire season. This season is essentially a prove-yourself year for him to secure a longer deal next offseason. He also ensures peace of mind, knowing the Blue Jays don't need him to perform at top-tier ace status. The team only needs him to be a quality mid-rotation starter.

For the Blue Jays, it means adding a former Cy Young Award winner (2020) on a short-term, discounted deal. With Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer heading to free agency, Bieber's return allows the club to focus more on other needs over the winter. This will, however, hinge on Berríos's availability at the start of 2026, as he was shut down in September and missed the postseason with an elbow injury.

There has been no update on his status as of yet. If his injury forces him to miss time at the beginning of next season, then the Blue Jays will need to revisit their plan of pursuing a difference-making starting pitcher. In addition to Lauer and Francis being fits for the back end of the rotation, the Jays also have Easton Lucas as an option. However, if Berríos misses time, the Blue Jays will need more starting depth.

The team has the luxury this offseason of not needing to add too many pieces to contend for another World Series trip next season. They will return all but one player from their optimal offensive starting lineup if their players stay healthy during the offseason. Another bullpen arm would be nice, but most of the questions this offseason will revolve around whether the Blue Jays decide to re-sign Bo Bichette.

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