José Berríos, once a stalwart in the Toronto Blue Jays’ pitching rotation, faced an unexpected and disappointing turn in his career as he was left off the team’s World Series roster. The exclusion was a blow to the talented right-hander, who had hoped to play a pivotal role in the team’s postseason run. His absence was so impactful emotionally that Berríos reportedly chose to “be away from the team” in the aftermath, signaling his displeasure and disappointment.
Ross Atkins, the Blue Jays’ president of baseball operations, acknowledged Berríos’ frustration. “He was not happy,” Atkins said candidly. “He was disappointed that he wasn’t in our rotation. He handled it well, but when it came down to roster selection, he wasn’t on it.” These words underline the tension between a player who expected to contribute in the biggest games of the season and a front office forced to make difficult decisions about who fits best on the roster.
The Blue Jays had to weigh many factors when finalizing their World Series roster. While Berríos had been an important part of the rotation in previous seasons, his 2025 campaign was marred by injuries and inconsistent performance, which likely influenced the team’s decision. The emergence of younger pitchers and new signings also increased competition for limited spots, pushing Berríos further down the pecking order.
Despite this setback, Atkins remains optimistic about Berríos’ place in the Blue Jays’ future. He expects the veteran to be a part of Toronto’s starting rotation in 2026, signaling that the team still values Berríos’ talent and experience. However, this future is not guaranteed, especially as the Blue Jays continue to adjust their roster and manage salary considerations.
For Berríos, the emotional toll of being left off such a crucial roster cannot be understated. Athletes at the highest level invest not only their skills but also their hearts and minds into their teams. To be sidelined during the sport’s most important series is a professional and personal disappointment. Berríos’ decision to take some time away from the team reflects the depth of that feeling.
The situation also highlights the difficult balancing act front offices must perform. Managers and executives must evaluate players not only on their talent but on health, current form, and team needs. Sometimes, this means making hard choices that can strain relationships but are necessary for the team’s overall success.
Looking ahead, Berríos faces a critical crossroads. He must regain full fitness and form to prove that he deserves a starting spot again. With the Blue Jays’ rotation likely to remain competitive, Berríos will have to demonstrate his value in spring training and beyond to secure his place.
For Blue Jays fans, this episode is a reminder that even beloved players can face harsh realities in professional sports. It also signals that the team is committed to making every roster decision with an eye on winning now and building for the future.
Ultimately, José Berríos’ story is far from over. His absence from the World Series roster was a painful moment, but it may also serve as motivation to return stronger and reclaim his spot. The 2026 season will be telling for both Berríos and the Toronto Blue Jays as they strive to compete at the highest level.
In the world of baseball, setbacks are part of the journey, and how a player responds often defines their legacy. Berríos’ next steps will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and teammates alike as he navigates this challenging chapter.
This saga is a powerful example of the human side of sports—where talent meets emotion and where team dynamics can shift in an instant. José Berríos’ experience shows that even the best players face uncertainty, but resilience and determination remain the keys to future success.
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