José Berríos Shakes Off 2025 Doubts, Looks Sharp in Blue Jays’ Spring Debut

DUNEDIN, Fla. – Toronto Blue Jays pitcher José Berríos delivered a promising performance in his first spring training start of 2026, signaling a potential return to form after a challenging 2025 season. Berríos threw 47 pitches over 2.2 innings against the New York Mets on Monday afternoon, adding 13 more in the bullpen, and reported feeling “pretty healthy, pretty strong,” a stark contrast to the “doubt” he carried at this point last year.

Overcoming Past Uncertainty

Berríos revealed he entered last spring training with concerns about his elbow, which he pitched through for the entirety of the 2025 season. He later discovered this discomfort was linked to biceps inflammation. “Honestly, last year, at this time, I had doubt in my mind already,” Berríos said. “Today, I felt like nothing’s on my mind. I’m clear.”

Injury Origins and Recovery

The elbow inflammation, ultimately diagnosed in September, stemmed from a biceps tendon issue. Despite the discomfort, Berríos maintained a 3.26 ERA through his first 17 starts but saw his performance decline to a 5.63 ERA over his final 14 outings. He underwent rehab and began throwing again in November, focusing on improving his kinematic sequence to efficiently transfer force and reduce strain on his upper body. “If my lower body works pretty well, my upper body is going to work less,” Berríos explained, aiming to stay fresh longer.

Positive Signs in Spring Debut

While his fastball velocity sat at 91.2 m.p.h. Due to the unseasonably cold weather (12°C), Berríos was pleased with his command and movement. He reported good spin on his fastball and changeup, and felt he was locating pitches effectively. Manager John Schneider recently noted that Berríos’ stuff is “back to where it was probably two years ago in terms of velocity and his breaking ball.”

Blue Jays’ Rotation Puzzle

Berríos’ health is crucial for the Blue Jays, who boast a potentially strong rotation including Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Trey Yesavage. Eric Lauer is as well competing for a spot, while Shane Bieber is working through a slower buildup.

World Baseball Classic Plans

Berríos is planning to build up his pitch count for a potential role in the World Baseball Classic, though he is currently ineligible to pitch for Puerto Rico in the first round due to insurance concerns. He hopes to be available for the quarter-finals if Puerto Rico advances, pending evaluation by the team.

Okamoto Makes an Impression

In other Blue Jays spring training news, Kazuma Okamoto hit his first home run of the spring, a 431-foot shot to center field. Manager John Schneider praised Okamoto’s adjustability at the plate and his potential to contribute to the team’s offense.

Upcoming Spring Schedule

The Blue Jays will have a minor-leaguer start against the New York Yankees on Tuesday. Cody Ponce is scheduled to pitch on Wednesday, followed by Kevin Gausman on Thursday, Eric Lauer on Friday, and a split-squad featuring Dylan Cease and José Berríos on Saturday. Shane Bieber continues his progression, with no definitive timeline for his return to mound work.