Blue Jays Finalize Spring Training Roster, Head North for Opening Day
DUNEDIN, Fla. – The Toronto Blue Jays concluded their spring training schedule with an unconventional intrasquad game on Sunday, featuring unique rules and providing final evaluations before heading to Toronto for preparations ahead of Friday’s Opening Day against the Oakland Athletics.1
The intrasquad game included innings of one and four outs, unconventional batting orders, and strategic placement of baserunners. Manager John Schneider described the game as “quirky” but valuable for observing detailed aspects of player performance.4
Roster Decisions Loom
With the spring training schedule complete, the Blue Jays face final roster decisions before Wednesday’s deadline. The most pressing questions surround the final spots in the bullpen and on the bench.4
The competition for the last bullpen spot is between Rule 5 pick Spencer Miles and side-armer Chase Lee. Lee has the advantage of being able to be optioned to Triple-A Buffalo, while Miles would require waivers if released.4 The final bench spot is contested between Davis Schneider, who has options remaining, and Leo Jimenez, who does not.4
The Blue Jays are considering the potential of carrying both Miles and Jimenez, but this would involve navigating waiver claims. If they retain Lee and Schneider, Miles would be subject to waivers, and Jimenez is likely to be claimed by another team.4
Player Evaluations and Considerations
John Schneider noted the team has more outfield depth than infield depth, influencing the bench decision.4 If Jimenez is claimed, prospect Josh Kasevich would be the next option, providing big-league experience as a backup. The team is weighing this against the power potential of Davis Schneider.4 Schneider would be used similarly to his role in previous seasons, while Jimenez would likely be targeted against left-handed starters.4
The bullpen decision is complicated by Lee’s predictability in a multi-inning role, while Miles offers high-velocity potential despite limited experience.4
Injury Updates and TD Ballpark
Cody Ponce and Max Scherzer will join the team later this week after tune-up outings in Florida. Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, and Shane Bieber will begin the season on the injured list.4 Eric Lauer, who will pitch Sunday’s series finale, has focused on improving his changeup during spring training.4
The Jays Shop at TD Ballpark, located at 373 Douglas Avenue in Dunedin, FL (727-738-7025), is open to ticketed fans during game days from gate opening to 30 minutes post-game, and daily Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. To 4 p.m. Starting January 26, 2026.2
Kazuma Okamoto is expected to play first base on days Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Is at DH, with Ernie Clement as an additional option if needed.4 Nathan Lukes has secured his spot on the roster, with Jesus Sanchez also expected to contribute against right-handed pitchers.4
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