Blue Jays sign Jeff Hoffman after Orioles nix deal over physical

Just hours ago, it was announced that the Toronto Blue Jays signed All-Star closer Jeff Hoffman to a three year, $33MM deal. But the reunion with their former first round draft pick almost didn't happen.

MLB insider and FanSided contributor Robert Murray reported that prior to signing with the Blue Jays, Hoffman had an agreement in place with division rival Baltimore Orioles. After performing the necessary physical, the Orioles pulled out of the deal, citing concerns with Hoffman's shoulder.

Every organization evaluates players differently, especially when it comes to injuiry, so there may be nothing inherently wrong with Hoffman's shoulder. It did cost him $7MM however. The proposed deal with Baltimore was for $40MM, while the Blue Jays are paying Hoffman $33M; however there is $6MM in incentives available.

The Orioles organization has a reputation of being quite guarded when it comes to physicals and player health, so its possible they were just being overly cautious and whatever concerns they had, the Blue Jays felt it was minor enough that they could over look it.

The Blue Jays do have a point as well. Hoffman has perfectly healthy over the last two seasons - perhaps some of that could be attributed to transitioning full time to the bullpen - after missing two months with a shoulder impingement in 2021. Perhaps that is what the Orioles saw.

This isn't the first time a team has pulled out of deal due to injury concerns. A couple of years back, the Giants famously pulled out of signing Carlos Correa because of concerns about his ankle. After appearing in 135 games in 2023, Correa only played in 86 last year.

If the Blue Jays are proven right and Hoffman's shoulder holds up, this will be a major boost for the bullpen. If last year is anything to go by, the Blue Jays should be fine.

SOURCE - MLB Trade Rumours

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