Jeff Hoffman, the All-Star reliever, has inked a lucrative $33 million, three-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, marking a significant milestone in his career. The agreement was officially announced by the team on a Friday night, just two days after Hoffman celebrated his 32nd birthday with his eyes set on a new chapter in Toronto.
Last season, Hoffman showcased his stellar pitching skills with a remarkable record of 3-3, boasting an impressive 2.17 ERA and tallying 10 saves for the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies. His stellar performance earned him a well-deserved spot in the All-Star selection in July, where he excelled on the mound, setting personal bests in ERA, saves, and appearances with 68.
Although Hoffman was initially drafted by the Blue Jays in the ninth overall pick of the 2014 amateur draft from East Carolina, he never had the opportunity to pitch for Toronto. Instead, he was part of a blockbuster trade in the following year that sent him to Colorado along with three other players, ultimately bringing star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and reliever LaTroy Hawkins to the Blue Jays.
During the intense 2023 National League Championship Series against Arizona, Hoffman exhibited his resilience by pitching six scoreless innings across five appearances, solidifying his reputation as a reliable arm in high-pressure situations. However, his performance took a downturn in last year’s playoffs against the fierce rival New York Mets, where he struggled with a 1-2 record, surrendering six runs in just 1 1/3 innings over three pivotal outings in the Division Series.
In a corresponding roster move, the Blue Jays took a decisive step by designating Toronto right-hander Brett de Geus for assignment, signaling a new direction for the team as they bolster their bullpen with the addition of Hoffman. The deal marks a significant investment in the team’s pitching staff, as they aim to build a formidable lineup capable of taking on the challenges of the upcoming season with renewed vigor and determination.
