Veteran pitcher attempting MLB comeback with Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays are giving at least one veteran pitcher a chance to impress them in spring training.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Blue Jays have offered a non-roster invite to their spring training next year to Eric Lauer, a 29-year-old lefty with 120 career MLB appearances.
Most recently, Lauer played the 2024 season with the South Korean-based Kia Tigers, winning the 2024 KBO title.
LHP Eric Lauer has an NRI deal with the Blue Jays, per sources.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 13, 2024
He had just eight starts in Korea, putting up a 4.93 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP, picking up 36 strikeouts in 36.2 innings.
Across six MLB seasons with the San Diego Padres and the Milwaukee Brewers, Lauer has put up an ERA of 4.30 and 567 strikeouts in 596.2 innings pitched.
Where would Lauer fit in with the Blue Jays?
It is not immediately clear whether the Jays would be testing Lauer out for a starting job or a bullpen role, or perhaps be willing to sign him to a minor league deal to attempt to further impress.
Toronto currently has Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Chris Bassitt as established veteran spots in their rotation, with late-season phenom Bowden Francis likely claiming a fourth Opening Day spot.
Yariel Rodriguez struggled in his first MLB campaign, but given that he’s got a five-year deal with Toronto, will probably get another go around to impress in his sophomore campaign.
Lauer has mostly been used as a starting pitcher during his time in the majors, but has also made eight appearances out of the bullpen.
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