Blue Jays Add Under-the-Radar Arm to Bolster Rotation

Connor Overton in a Reds uniform during 2023 game.

The Toronto Blue Jays have brought back right-hander Connor Overton on a minor-league deal, marking a reunion with a familiar face. 

Overton, now 31, previously pitched for the Blue Jays during the 2021 season, appearing in four games and logging 6.2 innings. 

His return comes after a brief stint in spring training with the New York Mets, which ended in his release at the end of March. According to MLB.com's transaction log, Overton will report to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons as he looks to re-establish himself within the organization.

In 2022, Overton pitched 33 innings for the Cincinnati Reds, recording an impressive 2.73 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and 14 strikeouts across six appearances (four starts).

Overton’s path through professional baseball has been winding. A native of Richmond, Virginia, he has pitched for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds. 

With the Reds, he made nine major league appearances across the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Though his time in the big leagues has been limited, Overton has shown flashes of effectiveness and remains a depth option with experience.

While he’s not expected to be an immediate factor for the major league roster, Overton gives the organization a veteran presence who can step in if needed.

Photo Credit: Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK