Blue Jays Eye Pete Fairbanks to Bolster Ninth-Inning Relief

After falling short in last year’s World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays are actively looking to upgrade their late-inning pitching. With previous targets already signed elsewhere, attention has turned to Tampa Bay Rays reliever Pete Fairbanks as a potential solution for the ninth inning.

Toronto has been connected to multiple top-tier relievers, but free agents like Ryan Helsley, Raisel Iglesias, and Phil Maton have all finalized deals, limiting the Blue Jays’ options. Fairbanks, a proven AL East performer, has now emerged as a realistic candidate to fill the team’s closer needs.

According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Katie Woo, both the Blue Jays and Miami Marlins have expressed interest in Fairbanks. His track record against Toronto makes him particularly appealing; in 27 career innings against the Jays, Fairbanks has held hitters to a .130 batting average and a .468 OPS.

Toronto’s bullpen has shown vulnerabilities despite signing Jeff Hoffman to a $33 million contract in 2025. Hoffman tied for third in the majors with seven blown saves and allowed a critical home run to Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas in the World Series, highlighting the need for additional high-leverage pitching.

1. Fairbanks’ Track Record

Pete Fairbanks has built a strong resume over seven MLB seasons, combining durability with high-leverage success. He has accumulated 90 career saves, a 3.19 ERA, and a 322/103 strikeout-to-walk ratio, demonstrating consistent effectiveness in the closer role. Over the past three seasons, Fairbanks has recorded 75 saves, including a career-high 25 in 2025. That season he posted a 2.83 ERA with a 59/18 strikeout-to-walk ratio, highlighting both his command and ability to finish games under pressure. His experience against AL East rivals further enhances his value. Toronto’s familiarity with Fairbanks’ approach—combined with his past dominance over their lineup—makes him a low-risk, high-reward addition for the Jays’ bullpen. Incorporating Fairbanks would provide a veteran presence in late innings, offering both reliability and depth for high-stakes situations. His track record suggests he could quickly become the team’s go-to ninth-inning option.

2. Blue Jays’ Bullpen Needs

Despite adding Hoffman to the bullpen, Toronto’s late-inning performance has raised concerns. Hoffman’s seven blown saves in 2025 underscored the need for another proven arm capable of handling high-pressure situations. The World Series highlighted the importance of a dependable closer, as pivotal moments, such as the home run given up to Miguel Rojas, shifted the series’ momentum. Strengthening the ninth inning is now a top priority for the front office. Toronto has already committed to a long-term deal with Dylan Cease, securing starting pitching, but the team recognizes that championship runs often hinge on late-inning execution. Adding Fairbanks would address that gap and provide insurance in critical games. The pursuit of Fairbanks reflects the Jays’ broader strategy to maintain a competitive roster while ensuring depth and versatility in the bullpen, key components for a sustained postseason push.

3. Market Competition and Strategic Fit

Fairbanks is expected to draw interest from multiple clubs beyond Toronto, creating a competitive market for his services. Miami is also reportedly pursuing the right-hander, adding urgency to any potential deal. For the Blue Jays, securing Fairbanks would represent a strategic move to shore up the closer role while complementing existing bullpen pieces like Hoffman. His experience and prior success against AL East opponents give Toronto an added tactical advantage. Negotiations may hinge on contract terms and the willingness of Tampa Bay to part with a proven closer. Toronto’s front office will need to balance financial considerations with the immediate need for reliable late-inning pitching. Ultimately, the acquisition of Fairbanks could be a defining move for the Blue Jays as they seek to reclaim a championship. A strong ninth inning may be the key difference between another postseason disappointment and a World Series victory.