Toronto is facing the surprising prospect of having. Chris Bassitt, a consistent and experienced pitcher, “recalled” to a completely different role — not just in the starting rotation but possibly as a key relief pitcher. According to Blue Jays Insider, the team’s management is considering keeping Bassitt, but on a short-term contract and changing the position to make the most of his vast experience.
While the Blue Jays have several potential candidates for starting — including Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, Kevin Gausman and Jose Berríos — Bassitt is still an “experienced card” that the team can’t ignore.
According to Ryley Delaney on Blue Jays Nation, if Toronto can’t sign a veteran ace like Framber Valdez or Dylan Cease, keeping Bassitt and moving him to a relief role could be a practical and effective option.
Bassitt appears poised for a career turnaround. He made 31 starts this past season and posted a 3.96 ERA, but more importantly, he has proven his worth in a postseason role.
According to Blue Jays Insider, Toronto is considering Bassitt as a relief pitcher — a role that has allowed him to shine and stabilize the team between tight innings.
One side is experience: Bassitt has been a reliable pitcher for years, and has the flexibility to transition between starter and reliever. The other side is concern: At 36, he had back problems last season, and the Blue Jays have at times been prepared to “cut” him out of the lineup.
Reuniting Bassitt in a new role would not only give Toronto a more experienced “right-hand man” in the bullpen, but would also create more strategic flexibility for manager John Schneider.
With Bassitt settled into a relief role, the Blue Jays could take some of the load off of their “young pitchers” or starters, while also taking full advantage of his championship experience and big-game pressure.
Some sources say Bassitt is keen to return to Toronto.
If he gets the right offer to continue contributing — but not too much to start — it could be a “win-win” deal for both player and team. Blue Jays fans are also watching this news with great anticipation; many believe Bassitt’s experience and locker-room influence are valuable assets that no team would want to give up.
The Blue Jays’ consideration of re-signing Bassitt — not as a regular starter, but as a “bullpen warrior” — shows that the team has high ambitions and is willing to be flexible to optimize its force. If the deal goes through, it would be a key strategic move: retaining experience while building a more flexible squad for the 2026 season.
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