Toronto Blue Jays Sign All-Star Reliever Jeff Hoffman to $33 Million Contract

The Toronto Blue Jays have made a major splash in the offseason by signing all-star reliever Jeff Hoffman to a three-year, $33 million contract. The deal was announced by the team on Friday night, just two days after Hoffman celebrated his 32nd birthday.

Last season, Hoffman had a stellar performance with the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies, recording a 2.17 ERA, 10 saves, and earning his first all-star selection in July. He set career bests in ERA, saves, and appearances, with 68 games under his belt. The right-hander struck out 89 batters and walked only 16 in 66 1/3 innings, holding opposing hitters to a .197 batting average and compiling an impressive 0.96 WHIP.

General manager Ross Atkins expressed his excitement about adding Hoffman to the Blue Jays bullpen, praising his elite arsenal, strike-throwing ability, and knack for striking out batters of all types. Hoffman will have the opportunity to close games for Toronto this season, given his track record, competitiveness, and experience.

Hoffman was originally drafted ninth overall by the Blue Jays in the 2014 amateur draft out of East Carolina, but he has never pitched for the team. He was traded to the Colorado Rockies the following year in a blockbuster deal that brought Troy Tulowitzki and LaTroy Hawkins to Toronto.

Throughout his nine seasons in the majors with Colorado, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia, Hoffman has accumulated a record of 23-26 with a 4.82 ERA in 256 games, including 50 starts. He made his MLB debut in 2016 with the Rockies and has since established himself as a reliable reliever.

In the 2023 National League Championship Series, Hoffman showcased his talent by pitching six shutout innings over five appearances against the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, he faced struggles in last year’s playoffs against the New York Mets, going 1-2 and allowing six runs in just 1 1/3 innings over three outings in the Division Series.

As part of his contract with the Blue Jays, Hoffman will receive a $5 million signing bonus along with salaries of $6 million this year and $11 million in each of the following two seasons. He also has the opportunity to earn up to $2 million annually in performance bonuses based on innings pitched.

Additionally, in a corresponding roster move, Toronto has designated right-hander Brett de Geus for assignment.