The Toronto Blue Jays are again grappling with pitching depth issues as injuries to their starters mount. After offseason confidence in prospects like Jake Bloss and Easton Lucas, the team has turned to Eric Lauer out of necessity. Lucas performed well initially but struggled in his last outings replacing the injured Max Scherzer. The Blue Jays have used just eight starters in 2023, which raises questions about their depth, especially with injuries to key pitchers like Alek Manoah.

Despite a recent comeback victory against the Boston Red Sox, the pitching strategy remains precarious, hinging on the performance of relievers and the hope that Lauer can solidify a weak fifth spot in the rotation. The decision to part with Ryan Yarbrough, who has found success with the New York Yankees, looms large as the Jays now face the consequences of their roster decisions.

The Toronto Blue Jays' starting rotation has navigated the last two seasons without significant injuries, but the odds suggest that luck will eventually run out. In such an event, the depth of the pitching staff will be crucial. Jake Bloss, a right-handed pitcher acquired from the Houston Astros in a trade, represents part of this depth. Although not expected to make the opening-day roster, the 23-year-old is viewed as a valuable asset ready to step in if needed.

Bloss had a challenging 2024 season, pitching for five different teams and logging a career-high 105 innings, which tested his endurance. This offseason, the Jays emphasized improving his fitness, noting adjustments to his delivery and pitch arsenal. Bloss's youth and potential have led him to rise in prospect rankings, making him the third-best prospect in the Jays system according to MLB Pipeline. Heading into the new season, a strong performance in Triple-A could position him to fill in seamlessly in the majors.

Mickey Moniak, the Los Angeles Angels outfielder, has triumphed in salary arbitration, securing a raise to $2 million, surpassing the team's offer of $1.5 million. This marks Moniak's first eligibility for arbitration after a season where he batted .219, hitting 14 home runs and achieving a career-high of 49 RBIs. The ruling was made by Melinda Gordon, Samantha Tower, and John Woods after they evaluated the arguments presented a day prior.

In related arbitration news, right-hander Jovan Oviedo lost his case with the Pittsburgh Pirates, resulting in an $850,000 salary instead of his requested $1.15 million. The future of another Pirates pitcher, Dennis Santana, remains undecided as he seeks $2.1 million against an offer of $1.4 million. A total of eight players are still awaiting decisions, including Angels first baseman/second baseman Luis Rengifo, who has sought $5.95 million with a counteroffer at $5.8 million.