The Blue Jays just acquired one of their top free agent relievers to strengthen their bullpen.
Toronto announced Friday that it has signed right-hander Jeff Hoffman to a three-year contract.
It was later revealed that the former Phillies right-hander's contract is worth $33 million, which could rise to up to $39 million with incentives. Confirmed by Jon Heyman of the Post..
However, before signing with the Blue Jays, Hoffman signed a three-year, $40 million contract with the Orioles, but the deal fell apart due to Hoffman's physical concerns, according to MLB officials. robert murray.
Hoffman, 32, had his best MLB season with the Phillies in 2024, emerging as one of the league's top bullpen arms.
The New York native played in 68 games and had a career-high 89 strikeouts, making his first All-Star Game appearance.
Hoffman also made 10 saves after being assigned the closer role midway through the year.
During his two seasons in Philadelphia, Hoffman posted a 2.28 ERA, ranking sixth among pitchers with at least 100 games played during that span.
Hoffman was on the verge of retiring from the majors two years ago after posting a 5.68 ERA in seven seasons with the Rockies and Reds before joining the Phillies.
The Phillies signed Hoffman to a minor league contract before the 2023 season, and he started the season in Triple-A before being called up in May of that year.
However, Hoffman had a disappointing performance in the playoffs this season, allowing seven earned runs in just 1 1/3 innings against the Mets in the National League.
The 32-year-old could replace veteran reliever Chad Green as Toronto's closer, which was a stopgap job following an injury to two-time All-Star Jordan Romano.
Coincidentally, Romano signed a one-year contract with the Phillies on December 9th worth $8.5 million.
