Ryan Yarbrough opts out of Blue Jays deal

Ryan Yarbrough, a left-handed pitcher, plans to opt out of his minor league deal with the Toronto Blue Jays. The team has until Sunday at 1 PM Central time to decide whether to add him to their major league roster. If the Jays do not add him, Yarbrough will become a free agent. Yarbrough is classified as an Article XX(b) free agent, which applies to players with more than six years of service in Major League Baseball. He has guaranteed opt-out dates under his minor league contract. The first opt-out date is set for tomorrow, with additional dates on May 1 and June 1. Once Yarbrough triggers the opt-out, the team has 48 hours to respond. He has a successful career despite not having high strikeout numbers. Yarbrough has pitched 768 innings in the majors with a 4.21 earned run average. He has an 18.7% strikeout rate, which is below average, but his 5.5% walk rate is strong. His pitching metrics show that he consistently performs well, especially regarding exit velocity and hard-hit rates. The Blue Jays recently acquired him from the Dodgers last season, where he posted a 2.01 ERA in 12 relief appearances. After being unsigned for a period, he rejoined the Blue Jays on a minor league contract paying $2 million if he makes the team. In spring training, Yarbrough has pitched 6.2 innings and allowed three runs while striking out eight batters. The Blue Jays currently plan to start José Berríos, Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis in their rotation. Max Scherzer might also have a spot if he's healthy, though he is currently dealing with thumb soreness. Manager John Schneider confirmed that Scherzer will pitch against the Twins tomorrow. If Scherzer is fit to play, Yarbrough may take on a long relief role. If Scherzer is unable to start, Yarbrough could take that spot in the rotation. The team might wait to decide on Yarbrough until after Scherzer's performance. If they add Yarbrough to the roster, a corresponding move will be required to make space on the 40-man roster.