Trending Now - Blue Jays Release Shortstop Leo Jimenez Amid Roster Changes

WHO:

Toronto Blue Jays

Leo Jiménez, 24-year-old shortstop

Spencer Miles, Rule 5 pick

Shi Davidi, reporter for Sportsnet

Mitch Bannon, reporter for The Athletic

Ernie Clement, player

Andrés Giménez, player

Angel Bastardo, Rule 5 pick

WHAT:

The Toronto Blue Jays designated Leo Jiménez for assignment.

Jiménez had 210 plate appearances as a rookie in 2024, hitting .229/.329/.358.

Jiménez struck out in 28% of his plate appearances.

Jiménez played 18 big league games in 2025.

Jiménez hit .271/.416/.431 in Triple-A in 2024.

The Blue Jays announced their roster, including Spencer Miles and designating Jiménez and Bastardo for assignment.

Miles struck out 11 hitters over 9 2/3 innings in spring training.

Angel Bastardo will go on waivers and will be offered back to the Red Sox if he clears.

WHERE:

Toronto, Canada

WHEN:

The roster announcement occurred on March 26th, 2026.

Jiménez has spent eight seasons in the Toronto system.

The Blue Jays will have five days to attempt to trade Jiménez.

WHY:

Jiménez was out of options and did not win the final spot on Toronto’s bench.

The Blue Jays opted for a more proven right-handed power bat in Davis Schneider over Jiménez.

HOW:

The Blue Jays designated Jiménez for assignment as part of their roster decisions.

(UPDATED March 26, 2026 15:24 UTC)

The Toronto Blue Jays have designated shortstop Leo Jiménez for assignment as they finalize their roster, opting for a more proven right-handed power bat in Davis Schneider. Jiménez, who spent eight seasons in the Toronto system, had 210 plate appearances as a rookie in 2024, hitting .229 with a high strikeout rate, and played just 18 games in the big leagues last season. Along with Jiménez, the Blue Jays also designated Angel Bastardo for assignment, while Spencer Miles, a Rule 5 pick, impressed in spring training by striking out 11 hitters over 9 and two-thirds innings.