Is Ricky Tiedemann Poised To Become the Blue Jays’ Next Breakout Star?

The Blue Jays had several top prospects eligible for protection from the Rule 5 draft, which is coming up on December 10. Still, they only added one – left-handed pitcher Ricky Tiedemann (Jays Centre's No. 5 prospect) – to the 40-man roster before Tuesday's deadline. This was surprising, as I also expected No. 11 prospect Josh Kasevich to be protected as a possible Bo Bichette replacement, though his lack of power is a concern.

Tiedemann was almost certain to be protected, given his strong performance when healthy. In his 2022 minor league debut, he posted a 2.17 ERA across three levels, with a 117:29 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 78 2/3 innings. He held opponents to a .149 average with a 2.51 FIP. Although he regressed on the surface in 2023, he still recorded a 3.68 ERA and an 82:23 strikeout-to-walk ratio in only 44 innings (due to a biceps injury). His 1.68 FIP was highly impressive, especially considering he pitched most of his innings at Double A.

Tiedemann continued to deal with injuries in early 2024. In July, he was removed from a game and subsequently required Tommy John surgery, causing him to miss the remainder of the 2024 season and all of 2025. This lack of experience could impact whether the 23-year-old will pitch in the Blue Jays' big league camp during spring training.

Tiedemann's pitching arsenal contains a mid-90s fastball, a changeup, and a slider. His deceptive low arm slot helps him rack up strikeouts, exciting Blue Jays fans. However, he relies heavily on his fastball-slider combo and will need to develop additional pitches or improve his changeup. Major league hitters may capitalize if he only depends on two pitches he can command.

The Blue Jays will likely ease Tiedemann in next season, meaning he may not make the Opening Day roster. With Trey Yesavage, Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Shane Bieber set to return to the rotation, the team can afford to be patient when it comes to Tiedemann's MLB debut.

If those four stay healthy, the Blue Jays may use Eric Lauer as their fifth starter, allowing Tiedemann to ease into the season. This could lead to a scenario that mirrors Yesavage's rookie season; the 2024 first-round pick debuted in mid-September and delivered clutch postseason outings, including seven one-run innings with 12 strikeouts in Game 5 of the World Series, helping the Blue Jays take a 3-2 series lead. Regardless of when it happens, Blue Jays fans should expect to see Tiedemann take the mound for the major league team at some point next season.