The Toronto Blue Jays signed Jeff Hoffman to a three-year, $33 million contract on Friday evening. The right-hander had actually agreed to a three-year, $40 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles. However, the Orioles backed out from the move after they detected damage to the shoulder on the pitcher's throwing arm during the medical examination.
MLB fans took a sarcastic view with their comments on social media about the Toronto Blue Jays signing Jeff Hoffman in spite of his health concerns.
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Jeff Hoffman enjoyed two successful years with the Philadelphia Phillies, joining the team at the start of the 2023 season after he opted out of the Minnesota Twins upon failing to make their Opening Day roster. Hoffman soon became an integral part of their bullpen as he established himself as one of the foremost high-leverage relievers in the game.
Hoffman produced the best season of his career in 2024, being one of seven Phillies players selected for the All-Star Game. Nevertheless, they did not offer an extension to the player and allowed him to leave the team in free agency, probably because they knew about his damaged right shoulder.
"Different Doctors in Canada?" asked one fan.
"That’s not concerning in the slightest," was another sarcastic comment.
"Great move by Toronto," was another one.
The fans poured in their thougths on X regarding the Blue Jays acquisition.
"Toronto so desperate to make a move," remarked one fan.
"So, that’s why the Phillies didn’t re-sign him," a fan noted.
"The Jays gave up on Jordan Romano because they thought he is damaged, So they pick up Hoffman who is damaged??? Make this make sense" another fan said.
Hoffman pitched 66.1 innings with a 2.17 ERA along with 89 strikeouts during the regular season last year.
Jeff Hoffman could take up closer role for Blue Jays vacated by Jordan Romano
There is a vacancy in the Toronto Blue Jays bullpen for the closer role after they released Jordan Romano at the end of the 2024 campaign. The two-time All-Star had a dreadful season last year that was also marred by an elbow injury before he was eventually non-tendered by the Blue Jays in October.
Therefore, Jeff Hoffman could well take up the vacant position for the team this season. He certainly holds the credentials for the role after his two excellent seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies.
On the other hand, former Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano had already joined the Phillies on a one-year, $8.5 million deal in December.
