The Toronto Blue Jays have added a familiar face to their spring training roster, announcing a minor league deal with left-handed reliever Joe Mantiply on Monday, March 3, 2026. The 35-year-classic returns to the organization after a brief stint with the team late last season, hoping to compete for a spot in a Blue Jays bullpen that could use another reliable left arm. This signing, as reported by Blue Jays Central and TSN, provides depth and a potentially valuable arm as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Mantiply’s journey back to Toronto began after he was released by the Arizona Diamondbacks in June 2025. He quickly signed a minor league contract with the Blue Jays, reporting to their Florida complex to regain his form before joining the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons. While his run prevention numbers with the Bisons weren’t spectacular – allowing eight runs (six earned) across 15 2/3 innings – Mantiply showcased impressive command, recording a remarkable 19 strikeouts and zero walks against 64 batters. This performance, despite not earning him a call-up to the majors in 2025, clearly impressed the Blue Jays enough to offer him another opportunity.
A Surprise All-Star with a Unique Skillset
The signing represents a low-risk, high-reward move for Toronto, bringing back a pitcher who enjoyed a breakout season in 2022. That year, Mantiply emerged as an unlikely All-Star for the Diamondbacks, posting a 2.85 ERA over a career-high 60 innings pitched. He isn’t a power pitcher, averaging just 88.4 mph on his sinker, but relies on movement and command to generate ground balls and preserve hitters off balance. His sinker and changeup combination proved effective in 2022, and the Blue Jays are hoping he can rediscover that form.
However, 2024 wasn’t as kind to Mantiply. He allowed 17 runs in 9 2/3 innings with the Diamondbacks before his release. The Blue Jays are banking on his ability to refine his approach and leverage his strengths, particularly his exceptional control, to become a valuable asset out of the bullpen. The non-roster invite to spring training provides him with a platform to showcase his skills and compete for a major league roster spot.
Addressing a Require in the Blue Jays Bullpen
The Blue Jays’ decision to bring back Mantiply is also influenced by the current state of their left-handed relief options. While the team boasts a strong overall roster, they are relatively thin on established left-handed arms. Eric Lauer is expected to take on a multi-inning role, providing versatility, but the bullpen lacks a consistent, reliable left-handed specialist. Mason Fluharty, a cutter specialist, and Brendon Little, who possesses more raw stuff but struggles with consistency, are also vying for bullpen spots.
Adding another left-handed option like Mantiply provides manager John Schneider with more flexibility and matchup advantages. The Blue Jays also have to consider the health of Ricky Tiedemann, a former top prospect who is currently battling elbow discomfort. Tiedemann could potentially contribute as a rookie, either in the rotation or the bullpen, but his injury history adds uncertainty to the equation.
The Blue Jays have a history of identifying and developing relievers, and they clearly see potential in Mantiply. His ability to consistently throw strikes and induce ground balls could make him a valuable addition to a team aiming for a deep playoff run.
The team announced the signing on Monday, March 3, 2026, according to Blue Jays Central, and TSN.
Spring training will be crucial for Mantiply as he attempts to prove he can regain his All-Star form and earn a spot on the Blue Jays’ Opening Day roster. The competition will be fierce, but his experience and unique skillset give him a legitimate chance to contribute to the team’s success in 2026.
The Blue Jays will continue spring training preparations in Dunedin, Florida, with exhibition games scheduled to begin later this month. Further roster moves and updates will be announced as the team finalizes its plans for the upcoming season.
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