JUST IN: Blue Jays Make a Shocking U-Turn, Shift Gears to Sign Ex-Phillies Starter to Bolster Pitching Depth After…

In a move few saw coming, the Toronto Blue Jays have taken a surprising turn in their offseason strategy by signing former Philadelphia Phillies starter Spencer Turnbull, signaling a renewed urgency to address their pitching vulnerabilities.

After weeks of speculation linking the Blue Jays to high-profile names on the free-agent market, Toronto has instead opted for a lower-risk, potentially high-reward addition in Turnbull. The right-hander, once a promising arm in the Detroit Tigers’ rotation, joined the Phillies in 2024 but struggled to regain full form after dealing with injury setbacks in previous seasons. Still, his flashes of dominance — including a no-hitter in 2021 — clearly convinced the Blue Jays’ front office that he’s worth the gamble.

Toronto’s decision represents a clear pivot from earlier indications that they were aggressively targeting top-tier pitching talent. Sources close to the organization say the front office believes Turnbull’s ceiling remains untapped and that his clean bill of health entering 2025 makes him a candidate for a bounce-back year.

The Blue Jays’ rotation struggled with consistency last season, particularly beyond their top three starters. Adding Turnbull gives them a depth option who, if he returns to form, could solidify the back end of the rotation or serve as a swingman out of the bullpen.

Toronto’s management also praised Turnbull’s work ethic and upside. “Spencer brings experience and competitiveness,” said one team executive. “We think there’s another gear in him, and we’re excited to help him find it.”

For Turnbull, the opportunity represents a fresh chapter. If he can stay healthy and rediscover his form, both he and the Blue Jays could find themselves the beneficiaries of a savvy under-the-radar move.

With spring training looming, this unexpected signing adds intrigue to Toronto’s plans — and could quietly turn into one of the more impactful deals of the offseason.

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