What does the Blue Jays bullpen now look like?

With Scherzer now the number four starter, Yariel Rodriguez will begin 2025 in the bullpen, where the Jays believe he'll be more effective. While he'll fill a long relief/hybrid role, what does the rest of the bullpen look like?

Jeff Hoffman is now the closer, with Chad Green and Yimi Garcia in set-up roles. Erik Swanson will also figure into the late-innings picture. Nick Sandlin and Brendon Little are expected to be the go-to middle relief options.

That brings the bullpen count to seven. Barring a trade or free-agent signing, one spot remains open.

At some point, that opening will go to Rule 5 pick Angel Bastardo, but he's currently injured and will spend most of the year rehabbing. Adam Macko will likely get a look at some point, though the Jays view him more as a starter.

There are a few other depth pitchers the Blue Jays could consider here, but from the remaining group, one player will need to be DFA'd to make room for Scherzer.

The most logical choices seem to be Ryan Burr, Zach Pop, and Josh Walker. Of the three, Burr had the best results, but he still has an option left, so the Jays might be better off stashing him in the minors. Walker also has an option, while Pop does not, but his left-handedness could give him the edge, serving as a second southpaw alongside Little.

Tommy Nance could also factor into the conversation, as he, too, is out of options and performed admirably during his mid-season call-up with the Blue Jays.

Still, it feels like Walker is the best fit among them, but these things often work themselves out during Spring Training.

For all your current Toronto Blue Jays and MLB baseball news check out BlueJaysCentral.com on Facebook, X and Blue Sky.