The Blue Jays suddenly have a ton of pitching depth

Heading into 2025, the biggest question mark for the Blue Jays was where Yariel Rodriguez would fit. He showed promise as a starter in 2024, but many believed he was better suited for a bullpen role.

Now, that's where he'll be.

With Scherzer stepping into the No. 4 spot in the rotation and Bowden Francis locked in as the fifth starter, Rodriguez can transition to the bullpen. This move not only provides more depth but also increases the length of the starting rotation.

Shifting Rodriguez to the pen also keeps Jake Bloss in the minors, where he can continue his development after being rushed to the majors by the Astros.

Bloss and Rodriguez would be the first in line should an injury arise or if Francis were to regress.

The Blue Jays' pitching options don't stop there.

They've also brought former draft pick Adam Kloffenstein back into the fold, making him a theoretical No. 7 starter. Prospect Adam Macko is another possibility to join the big league team midseason, and lefty Eric Lauer also provides depth. Those two would be starters No. 8 and 9-both of whom could be called up sooner, thanks to their left-handed status.

And then there's Alek Manoah.

The former ace has struggled since 2022 and is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery. However, if his recovery goes well, he could be back with the team by August.

That's 10 starters in total. And if the Jays need a bullpen day, they've got Brendon Little and potentially Ryan Burr, in addition to Rodriguez.

Suddenly, the Blue Jays find themselves with an abundance of pitching depth.