Lauer adds a southpaw option to Toronto’s rotation, contributing solid ratios and a respectable K-rate. His role supports the Jays’ fantasy floor, particularly in against-righty heavy lineups, and provides a potential streaming option when Guerrero’s health creates offensive volatility.

Lauer emerged as the safer long-relief option, delivering a 2.76 ERA and showing durability with one of the lowest ERAs on staff. His ability to go multiple innings makes him a strategic fit, even as Berríos’ velocity wanes and the Jays weigh opt-out implications for next season.

Lauer is lined up behind Berrios in the Jays’ rotation, adding another veteran arm to a group that will see load management as Bieber returns. His presence offers depth for Toronto and a potential streaming option if matchups align.

Lauer, Toronto’s starter, highlighted a playful take on the game, joking about pitchers batting and suggesting a rule change where pitchers could bat with position players on the mound. His curiosity and humor added flavor to the broadcast, while his on-field actions anchored Toronto’s late surge and added a fantasy lens to the mound work.

Lauer worked into the sixth with a season‐high pitch count (102) but allowed multiple runs as the Jays pulled away early, forcing Texas to chase the game. His protracted run limited the Rangers’ ability to stay in striking distance early and put Toronto in control.