The Toronto Blue Jays have looked like the early winners of the MLB offseason. They have been aggressive in bolstering their pitching rotation, signing three right-handed arms ahead of the 2026 season.
Those names include Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce and Shane Bieber, with all three expected to shoulder a significant workload next year. Cease in particular made headlines by signing the largest pitching contract in franchise history, a seven-year deal worth $210 million.
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With the rotation fortified, the front office has now pivoted toward addressing the bullpen, an area that could use reinforcements. Many of the top free agent relief arms are already off the board, but the Blue Jays remain linked to Pete Fairbanks, the former closer for the Tampa Bay Rays, along with other potential additions.
Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider (14)© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
On Friday, however, Toronto chose to strengthen the bullpen through the trade market. In a one-for-one swap with the Detroit Tigers, the Blue Jays sent minor league left-hander Johan Simon in exchange for right-handed reliever Chase Lee, who was immediately added to the 40-man roster.
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“OFFICIAL: We’ve acquired RHP Chase Lee from the Tigers in exchange for LHP Johan Simon. Welcome to the #BlueJays!” the team announced on X.
Lee arrives after spending his entire professional career with Detroit, having been selected in the sixth round of the 2021 MLB Draft. The 27-year-old made his big league debut in 2025 following five seasons in the minors.
He posted a 4.10 ERA across 32 appearances, going 4–1 while striking out 36 batters. Projected to slot into the back end of Toronto’s bullpen, Lee provides depth and stability. He features a funky submarine delivery that often keeps hitters off balance, creating a difficult angle to attack.
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Under team control for the next few seasons, Lee figures to take over a role vacated by Yariel Rodriguez, who was recently outrighted off the roster. For a Blue Jays team intent on building a complete pitching staff, his arrival represents another step toward constructing a bullpen capable of supporting their revamped rotation.
Toronto’s next moves will likely focus on adding an impactful bat to the lineup, with the return of infielder Bo Bichette still possible. The club also has the payroll flexibility to pursue outfielder Kyle Tucker, widely regarded as the top free agent available.
After falling just one win short of a World Series title, the Blue Jays have made aggressive strides this offseason and appear determined to position themselves for another deep postseason run in 2026.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 12, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.