Blue Jays Adjust Bullpen: Little and Estrada Head to Triple-A
CHICAGO – In a move signaling early-season adjustments, the Toronto Blue Jays have optioned pitchers Brendon Little and Lazaro Estrada to Triple-A Buffalo. This decision comes ahead of Sunday’s game against the White Sox, as the team seeks to address recent performance issues and bolster bullpen depth.
Little’s Struggles and a Chance to Reset
Brendon Little’s start to the 2026 season has been challenging, allowing 10 earned runs in just 3 2/3 innings, including two home runs in Saturday’s 6-3 loss to the White Sox. Manager John Schneider emphasized the need for both Little and the team to “figure it out,” noting a lack of precision in Little’s pitches. “There’s way less chase, and that comes with being in the league a little bit,” Schneider explained. “Teams are adjusting. The cat-and-mouse game is to try to get in the zone a little bit more, and when you do, you’ve got to make pitches.”
The Blue Jays remain confident in Little’s talent, demonstrated during parts of the 2025 season, and believe a stint in Triple-A will provide an opportunity to regroup and refine his skills. This move isn’t a reflection of lost faith, but rather a strategic step to help him regain his form.
Estrada Optioned, Replacements Called Up
Alongside Little, Lazaro Estrada was also optioned to Triple-A. Despite a solid performance on Saturday, pitching four scoreless innings, the team requires fresh arms in the bullpen. This highlights the fluid nature of MLB rosters and the constant evaluation of player performance.
To fill the vacancies, the Blue Jays have recalled Joe Mantiply and Austin Voth. Mantiply, a veteran left-hander with 256 big league appearances, brings experience to the bullpen. Voth, a right-hander with 207 MLB appearances, offers potential length after pitching as a starter in Japan last season.
Looking Ahead: Bullpen Depth and Potential Call-Ups
The Blue Jays utilized a significant number of pitchers (26) in relief roles last season, demonstrating the importance of bullpen depth. The team is proactively evaluating potential replacements, with right-hander Chase Lee and Canadian lefty Adam Macko as leading candidates. Macko, who impressed in spring training and at the World Baseball Classic for Team Canada, is poised for a potential call-up if the team needs a longer relief option.
Veteran starter Patrick Corbin also presents a versatile option, capable of serving as either a starter or a bulk reliever. Other players in Triple-A Buffalo, including Yariel Rodríguez, CJ Van Eyk, Chad Dallas, Jorge Alcala, and Josh Fleming, are also vying for an opportunity to contribute at the Major League level.
This roster shuffle underscores the dynamic nature of baseball and the Blue Jays’ commitment to optimizing their team performance throughout the season. Stay updated on the latest MLB news and trends by signing up for daily updates. MLB.com
