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Blue Jays Leave Closer Job Open as GM Says Jeff Hoffman Could Shift Roles

Atkins' comments point to interest in outside options after Hoffman's uneven year capped by a World Series blown save.

Overview

  • General manager Ross Atkins said Hoffman is not "married" to closing and indicated he would be open to any bullpen assignment that helps the team, per MLB.com.
  • Toronto is evaluating the relief market this winter, with outside names such as Edwin Díaz, Devin Williams and Ryan Helsley mentioned in coverage as potential targets.
  • Hoffman served as the Blue Jays' closer in 2025, recording 33 saves to tie for fourth in MLB but also finishing with a 4.37 ERA and seven blown saves.
  • He surrendered a game-tying home run to Miguel Rojas in the ninth inning of World Series Game 7, a moment fueling scrutiny of the ninth-inning plan.
  • Hoffman remains under a three-year contract signed in January 2025 and is controlled through 2027, keeping him in Toronto even if his role changes.