The Toronto Blue Jays have a need in the backend of the bullpen, but they are not the only ones.
The Blue Jays’ World Series opponent, the Los Angeles Dodgers, are also expected to be looking for high-leverage relievers this offseason. On that note, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported that both the Blue Jays and the Dodgers are expected to pursue former Tampa Bay Rays closer Pete Fairbanks.
“Fairbanks, who turns 32 next month, had an expected ERA last season in the top 11 percent of the sport,” Rosenthal wrote. “He ranks among the top four in Rays history in saves, strikeouts and appearances. But while he avoided the IL last season, he has a lengthy injury history, including Raynaud’s syndrome, which disrupts the blood flow to his fingers and affects his grip on the ball in cold weather.
“Some teams that play outdoors in cooler climates might consider him a risk, especially if they are intent on playing in October. But even in a free-agent market that includes closers Edwin DÃaz, Devin Williams and Robert Suárez, Fairbanks should attract considerable interest, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays among his expected suitors.”
Fairbanks had a 2.83 ERA and 27 saves in 2025 for the Rays. Overall, he has a 3.19 career ERA in seven seasons. He’s been red-hot over the last four seasons, specifically. Over that stretch, he pitched to a 2.73 ERA in 180 total appearances.
The Blue Jays and Dodgers competed for the 2025 World Series trophy. It seems like that competition is carrying over to the offseason as well.
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