The Toronto Blue Jays have finalized their 26-man roster for the 2025 season, with the much-anticipated Opening Day just hours away. As the team prepares to face the Baltimore Orioles in a four-game series starting today, they have made several roster moves that have significant implications for their lineup.
Among the notable changes, outfield prospect Alan Roden has made the Opening Day roster and will start in right field, batting ninth against Orioles pitcher Zach Eflin. Roden's impressive performance during spring training, where he posted an eye-catching .407/.541/.704 slash line, has earned him this opportunity. In 20 spring training games, he recorded two doubles and two home runs, along with a 6:4 walk-to-strikeout ratio, showcasing his ability to make solid contact and maintain a disciplined approach at the plate.
This marks a significant moment for Roden, who spent last season split between Double-A and Triple-A. During that time, he hit .267 with 11 doubles and seven home runs in 54 games at Double-A, and improved to a .314 average with a .510 slugging percentage in 71 games at Triple-A. With Daulton Varsho sidelined due to shoulder surgery, Roden is expected to receive ample playing time early in the season, although his role may diminish once Varsho returns.
The Blue Jays have also confirmed their Opening Day batting order, with Bo Bichette leading off, followed by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and newly acquired Anthony Santander in the third spot. This lineup reflects a mix of power and speed, aimed at setting a strong tone for the season. Jose Berrios, who is set to make his third Opening Day start in four years, will take the mound. Berrios had a solid 2024 season, registering a 3.60 ERA and 153 strikeouts over 192.1 innings.
In preparation for the season, the Blue Jays designated three pitchers for assignment: Tommy Nance, Zach Pop, and Nick Robertson. These decisions were not unexpected, as Pop struggled with a 5.59 ERA in 48.1 innings last season and was set to begin the season on the injured list with elbow discomfort. Nance, who had a 4.09 ERA in 2024, and Robertson, who posted a 5.30 ERA, also faced challenges that led to their removal from the roster.
With these cuts, the Blue Jays have made room for Roden, along with Jacob Barnes and Myles Straw, who have also been selected for the Major League roster. Barnes, a right-handed pitcher, is expected to contribute to the bullpen, which has undergone significant changes this offseason. The Blue Jays are entering the 2025 season with a new-look bullpen, highlighted by free agent acquisition Jeff Hoffman, who was an All-Star in 2024.
In addition to the roster moves, the Blue Jays placed Ryan Burr and Erik Swanson on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to March 24, due to right shoulder inflammation and right median nerve entrapment, respectively. Daulton Varsho is also on the 10-day injured list following his shoulder surgery. These injuries have forced the team to adapt quickly, and they are counting on players like Roden to step up in their absence.
The Blue Jays' Opening Day matchup against the Orioles is set to begin at 3:07 p.m. ET. Fans are eager to see how the new roster performs and whether Roden can capitalize on his opportunity in the big leagues. The team has high hopes for the season, and with a mix of returning stars and fresh talent, they aim to make a significant impact in the league.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Roden to see if he can maintain his spring training form and secure a permanent spot on the roster. The Blue Jays are optimistic that their strategic roster decisions will pay off as they look to contend in the competitive American League East.
