In a strategic move to bolster their pitching depth, the Toronto Blue Jays have signed left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough to a minor league contract with an invitation to the 2025 Major League Spring Training. This decision underscores the organization’s commitment to enhancing its roster with experienced and versatile players.
Ryan Yarbrough’s Professional Journey
Born on December 31, 1991, in Austin, Texas, Ryan Christian Yarbrough’s baseball journey began in his hometown before he moved to Lakeland, Florida. He honed his skills at All Saints’ Academy in Winter Haven, Florida, and furthered his development at Santa Fe College in 2011. Demonstrating significant potential, Yarbrough transferred to Old Dominion University, where he pitched for the Monarchs in 2013 and 2014. His performance caught the attention of Major League scouts, leading to his selection by the Seattle Mariners in the fourth round of the 2014 MLB Draft.
Yarbrough’s professional debut showcased his adaptability and skill. After being drafted, he progressed through the Mariners’ minor league system, displaying consistent performance. In January 2017, he was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he made his Major League debut on March 31, 2018. During his tenure with the Rays, Yarbrough became known for his versatility, effectively transitioning between starting roles and bullpen duties. Over five seasons with Tampa Bay, he accumulated a 40-31 record and a 4.33 ERA across 127 appearances, including 59 starts.
A Season of Resilience and Performance
The 2024 season was particularly eventful for Yarbrough. He began the year with the Los Angeles Dodgers, making 22 appearances and recording a 4-2 record with a 3.74 ERA. In a mid-season trade on July 30, 2024, the Dodgers sent Yarbrough to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for outfielder Kevin Kiermaier and cash considerations.
Upon joining the Blue Jays, Yarbrough’s impact was immediate and profound. He appeared in 12 games, primarily in a long-relief capacity, and posted an impressive 2.01 ERA over 31.1 innings. His WHIP stood at a remarkable 0.80, and opponents batted just .173 against him during this period. These statistics underscore his ability to suppress hits and manage games effectively, making him a valuable asset to the Blue Jays’ pitching staff.
Strategic Re-signing and Organizational Fit
Recognizing Yarbrough’s contributions and the depth he adds to the pitching roster, the Blue Jays opted to re-sign him to a minor league contract on February 20, 2025. This agreement includes an invitation to the Major League Spring Training, providing Yarbrough with an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Opening Day roster.
Manager John Schneider has expressed appreciation for Yarbrough’s versatility, noting his capability to function in multiple roles within the pitching staff. Whether as a starter, long reliever, or situational left-hander, Yarbrough’s experience and adaptability align with the team’s strategic objectives. His presence offers the Blue Jays flexibility in managing their pitching rotations and bullpen assignments, which is crucial over the grueling course of a Major League season.
Career Highlights and Pitching Profile
Throughout his seven-year Major League career, Yarbrough has demonstrated consistent performance. He boasts a 53-40 win-loss record and a 4.21 ERA over 768 innings pitched. His control on the mound is evident, with a career WHIP of 1.18, indicating his proficiency in limiting baserunners.
Yarbrough’s pitching arsenal is characterized by a repertoire that emphasizes control and movement over velocity. His primary pitches include a cutter, sinker, changeup, and curveball. Notably, his fastball averages around 86.5 mph, but he compensates for the lack of speed with exceptional command and the ability to induce weak contact. In the 2024 season, he ranked in the 99th percentile for Hard-Hit Percentage and the 97th percentile for Average Exit Velocity, metrics that highlight his effectiveness in limiting solid contact from hitters.
Personal Life and Community Engagement
Off the field, Yarbrough is known for his commitment to family and community. He and his wife, Nicole, were married in 2019 and are proud parents of two daughters, Harper and Charleigh. Balancing the demands of a professional baseball career with family life, Yarbrough exemplifies dedication both as an athlete and as a family man.
Looking Ahead
As the Blue Jays prepare for the 2025 season, Yarbrough’s re-signing reflects the organization’s strategy to build a robust and flexible pitching staff. His experience, coupled with his recent strong performances, positions him as a key contributor. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Yarbrough competes for a spot on the roster during Spring Training, eager to see how his presence will influence the team’s success in the upcoming season.
