Blue Jays Re-Sign Veteran Pitcher; Released Him Last Week

The Toronto Blue Jays have signed right-handed relief pitcher Jay Jackson to a split contract.

The 35-year-old had previously been released by the team days ago, but was re-signed after an impressive spring training performance.

Blue Jays and free agent reliever Jay Jackson are in agreement on a split contract, per source. The deal is pending a physical.

— Arden Zwelling (@ArdenZwelling) March 28, 2023

During spring training, Jackson pitched 9.1 innings without allowing a single run and recording 14 strikeouts while facing 37 batters. Despite his strong showing, he was not initially selected to be added to the team's 26-man roster.

Jackson's previous experience in the major leagues and strong performance in recent years, including a 2.29 ERA and 31.3% strikeout rate in 19 Triple-A appearances in 2022, could make him a valuable addition to the Blue Jays' bullpen.

Jay Jackson is indeed staying with the #BlueJays organization after re-signing a restructured contract with them, per source. @ArdenZwelling on all the details first

— Kaitlyn McGrath (@kaitlyncmcgrath) March 28, 2023

His new split contract includes a $1.4 million salary if he is added to the major league roster, but the team could also send him to Triple-A Buffalo as he still has a minor league option remaining.

Over his four-year major-league career, Jackson holds a 4.21 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, with 80 strikeouts across 57.2 innings and 59 appearances.

With his skill set and experience, he could be a key contributor for the Blue Jays' pitching staff in the upcoming season. Photo Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports