"Blue Jays Ink All-Star Right-Handed Pitcher Jeff Hoffman to Three-Year Contract"
The Blue Jays have reportedly signed All-Star right-hander Jeff Hoffman to a three-year contract worth $33 million on Friday.
The team announced the deal with the reliever, who was selected ninth overall in the first round of the 2014 draft by Toronto. He was later traded to the Colorado Rockies in 2015 as part of the package for Troy Tulowitzki.
Hoffman, who just turned 32 on Wednesday, will strengthen the Toronto bullpen and have the opportunity to serve as the closer. The Blue Jays parted ways with two-time All-Star Jordan Romano in November.
\"We are thrilled to have Jeff join our bullpen. His impressive arsenal, ability to throw strikes, and knack for striking out batters of all kinds is top-notch and will undoubtedly elevate our team,\" stated Toronto's general manager Ross Atkins. \"Jeff will have the chance to finish games for us this season. His track record, competitive spirit, and experience make him a great addition to this group.\"
Last season, Hoffman had an outstanding performance for the Philadelphia Phillies, recording a 2.17 ERA and 10 saves in 68 relief appearances. He struck out 89 batters and allowed just 48 hits and 16 walks in 66 1/3 innings, earning his first All-Star selection.
In 2023, Hoffman only gave up 29 hits in 52 1/3 innings for the Phillies, finishing with a 2.41 ERA in 54 games.
Overall, Hoffman has a record of 23-26 with a 4.82 ERA in 256 appearances (50 starts) over nine seasons with the Colorado Rockies (2016-20), Cincinnati Reds (2021-22), and Phillies.
Toronto also designated right-hander Brett de Geus for assignment. The 27-year-old has a career record of 3-4 with a 7.48 ERA in 60 relief appearances for five different teams. He appeared in two games for the Blue Jays last season.
