Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher José Berríos is channeling the frustrations of a difficult 2025 campaign into an aggressive off-season recovery plan. The right-hander, who missed the team's World Series run due to injury, is determined to reclaim his spot in a revamped rotation for the 2026 season.
Season Cut Short by Persistent Arm Issues
Berríos's reputation as one of baseball's most durable workhorses was interrupted on September 25, 2025, when he was placed on the injured list with right elbow inflammation. This marked the first IL stint of his major league career. In a recent interview on MLB Network, Berríos revealed the injury had been a lingering problem throughout the year.
"I was battling all year long with my elbow, my bicep," Berríos confessed. "But the way my team was competing out there, I was trying to stay out there and go out and compete every five days with them. But then late in the season, I couldn’t hold it any more."
An MRI later confirmed the issue as bicep tendon inflammation. The injury ultimately forced him to miss the postseason, a decision he admitted was difficult to accept. General Manager Ross Atkins acknowledged at the Winter Meetings that Berríos was "not happy" and "disappointed" about being left off the World Series roster.
Road to Recovery and WBC Ambitions
Now focused on the future, Berríos is well into his throwing program, stating he was in his fifth week of off-season work. His immediate goals are clear: return healthy for spring training and represent Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic in March.
"I have that in my mind," Berríos said of the international tournament. "I want to pitch in the WBC again. That’s my goal right now. First of all, to get to spring training healthy and strong and then would love to get ready for the WBC. It’s proud for us to play for our country and for our island."
His commitment to his homeland extends beyond the field through his La Makina Foundation, which supports youth in Puerto Rico through sports, education, and health initiatives.
Proving Himself in a Crowded Rotation
The 2026 season presents a significant challenge for the 31-year-old. After posting a 4.17 ERA over 166 innings in 2025, he must earn his way back into a starting rotation that has added significant talent. The Jays' pitching staff now includes newcomers Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce, joining established arms like Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, and rookie standout Trey Yesavage.
Despite the past season's disappointments, Berríos appears ready to move forward. He signed a seven-year, $131-million extension with Toronto in 2021 and remains a key part of the team's long-term plans. Atkins indicated that relationships have been mended, a necessary step after tough roster decisions.
Reflecting on the team's 2025 journey, Berríos struck a positive note: "It was an unbelievable year. The guys gave 100% every day out there. It was fun. I enjoyed it all year long." For the Blue Jays and their fans, the hope is that a healthy and motivated José Berríos will be a central figure in turning that fun into a championship in the seasons to come.
