Starting pitcher Shane Bieber has decided to stay with the Toronto Blue Jays for the upcoming season instead of testing free agency. The team confirmed on Wednesday that Bieber has opted for his $16 million US player option for the 2026 season.
Bieber, aged 30, joined the Blue Jays mid-season from the Cleveland Guardians and finished with a 4-2 record and a 3.57 earned-run average. His decision to return adds stability to the team’s starting rotation, which is anticipated to feature Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, and possibly Eric Lauer. The future of free agents Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt with the team remains uncertain.
During the post-season, Bieber demonstrated his prowess with a 2-1 record and a 3.86 ERA. Notably, he secured a victory on the road against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4 of the World Series and also pitched in Game 7. However, Bieber yielded a crucial home run to Will Smith in the 11th inning of the Blue Jays’ defeat at Rogers Centre.
Since his debut in 2018, Bieber has amassed a 66-34 record with a 3.24 ERA. He was honored with the American League Cy Young Award in 2020 after a remarkable 8-1 record and a 1.63 ERA season with the Guardians.
Bieber marked his first start for Toronto on August 22, impressively allowing only two hits over six innings following his Tommy John surgery in April 2024. His decision to remain with the Blue Jays for the upcoming season was unexpected, as he had the potential to secure a lucrative long-term contract in free agency. By staying with the Blue Jays, Bieber aims to enhance his value further on a competitive team expected to challenge for top honors next year.
Toronto had a successful season in 2025, winning 94 games to clinch the AL East Division title. The Blue Jays progressed through the AL Division Series against the New York Yankees and the AL Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners before succumbing to the Dodgers.
As the team gears up for the new season, spring training is set to commence in mid-February. The Blue Jays will kick off their 2026 campaign on March 26 against the Oakland Athletics.