Toronto Blue Jays reliever Erik Swanson has been shut down due to elbow discomfort and will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the issue. While the MRI results will provide more clarity on his condition, there is a strong likelihood that Swanson will begin the 2025 season on the injured list. This is a concerning development for the Jays, as any elbow issue raises red flags for a pitcher’s long-term health and performance.
Swanson Faces Another Injury Setback After Strong 2024 Finish and Optimistic 2025 Outlook
This is not the first time Swanson has faced injury concerns during spring training. Last year, he had to leave the team temporarily after his son was struck by a car. Once his son recovered, Swanson struggled with forearm tightness, though his MRI showed no structural damage.
He eventually began the 2024 season on the injured list and, after a rough start, was sent to Triple-A. However, he finished the season strongly, which generated optimism about his role in the 2025 bullpen.
Erik Swanson (MLB)Swanson, acquired from the Seattle Mariners in the Teoscar Hernández trade before the 2023 season, posted a solid 2.97 ERA in his first year with the Blue Jays. His performance was promising, with a 28.6% strikeout rate and 8% walk rate.
He accumulated 29 holds and 4 saves, showcasing his potential as a key bullpen piece. However, after his forearm issues and early-season struggles in 2024, Swanson’s season didn’t start as hoped. The strong finish last year led to optimism for 2025, but the recent elbow issue has now cast doubt on his availability.
Blue Jays Adjust Bullpen for 2025 with New Additions and Swanson’s Potential Absence
The Blue Jays’ bullpen for 2025 will look different than in previous years, with several key relievers no longer on the team. Former closer Jordan Romano struggled with injuries and was non-tendered, while Génesis Cabrera and Trevor Richards were let go.
The club has made several offseason additions, including signing Jeff Hoffman, re-signing Yimi García, and acquiring Nick Sandlin. These moves, along with holdover Chad Green, are expected to handle most of the high-leverage situations, and Swanson would have been part of that group if not for his elbow discomfort.
With Swanson likely sidelined for at least the start of the season, the Blue Jays must adjust their bullpen rotation. If Yariel Rodríguez assumes a long relief role, the Jays will need to find three additional pitchers to fill Swanson’s spot.
Possible candidates include right-handed pitchers such as Tommy Nance, Zach Pop, and Ryan Burr, along with left-handed options like Brendon Little, Josh Walker, and Easton Lucas. The team might also consider adding a lefty through free agency, with names like Richard Lovelady, Kevin Gowdy, and Braydon Fisher also impressing in camp. If needed, the Blue Jays may turn to unsigned relievers like David Robertson, Craig Kimbrel, or Phil Maton.
