As the 2025 season came to a close, filled with emotions — from the pride of reaching the World Series for the first time in more than three decades, to the heartbreak of losing by a narrow margin in Game 7 — many thought the memorable moment would fade into the past. But for former Blue Jays pitcher Eric Lauer, it wasn’t over. He recently posted an emotional message on social media, expressing his heartfelt thanks to his fans, teammates, family, and wife — along with his high hopes for the 2026 season next October.
“2025: a year I will never forget. From welcoming my first child to the World Series — this year had it all. A season that allowed me to fall in love with baseball again like I did when I was a kid. I just want to say thank you: to the fans who supported me until the end, to my teammates for going through the ups and downs like brothers, to my friends and family for their support and love, and especially to my wife — who has been a rock, looking after my son and me every day. It has been a great year and a memorable journey with the Jays — let’s do it again in 2026.”
🔙 Lauer’s 2025 Journey — From Reserve to “Soul” of the Season
Eric Lauer, 30, was one of the Blue Jays’ most pleasant surprises heading into the 2025 season. He bounced around the minor leagues before, even spending time overseas. But when he was called up to MLB, Lauer quickly adapted and proved his worth. In 2025, he took on a rotation role — both as a starter and a reliever — making 28 appearances, 15 starts, and posting a 3.18 ERA.
His consistent performance and dedication helped dispel many doubts — especially after the Blue Jays decided to move him to the bullpen to make room for his teammates in the rotation. Lauer didn’t complain, but instead showed professionalism and team spirit when he said: “Everyone deserves a rotation… a good team is a team that makes the tough decisions.”
In the brutal days of the postseason, Lauer once again proved he’s up for the tough tasks. In a classic 18‑inning game against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, Lauer threw 4⅔ innings in a row — keeping a clean sheet — to help the Blue Jays hang on until the final inning. Although the team couldn’t hold on to the win, Lauer’s performance was considered “extraordinary.”
🧡 Message & Promise for the Future
Lauer’s recent message wasn’t just a thank you. It was a promise, a declaration of his willingness to return to help the team go further next season:
He expressed his gratitude to the fans — who cheered, sympathized, and stood by him throughout the season.
He paid tribute to his teammates — who have stood by him, “rolled their weight” through wins and losses, and built a collective culture together.
He mentioned his family — a solid support after every game, every difficulty.
And he framed 2026 as a new opportunity: “Let’s run it back” — “Let’s restart” — with all the desire, experience, and determination.
From the perspective of experts, Lauer is now considered one of the top “stable values” that the Blue Jays can retain ahead of the 2026 season — with a salary that is expected to increase significantly.
However, the road ahead is still challenging. Although Lauer has proven versatile — from starter to bullpen — not everyone is sure he will maintain his high performance when pressure, a tight schedule, or changing roles.
Plus, with the bullpen and rotation being restructured, and several big names entering the offseason — the Blue Jays have plenty of other options. Still, Lauer’s current message and attitude make him one of the most likely candidates for fans to believe in.
🏁 2026 Season: A Story Not to Be Missed
With his accomplishments, his emotional message, and his promise to return, Eric Lauer is clearly more than just a pitcher — he’s a symbol of the Blue Jays spirit. He represents dedication, patience, gratitude, and the desire to improve.
If things go as he hopes — 2026 could be a breakout year for him… and for the Blue Jays organization. Fans, no doubt, are ready to come back — ready to believe, ready to cheer. And if Lauer keeps his word, we could be in for one of the most memorable seasons in Toronto history.
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