Chris Bassitt Departs Toronto Blue Jays for Baltimore Orioles in Free Agency
In a significant offseason move, veteran right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt will not be rejoining the Toronto Blue Jays for the upcoming season. Multiple reports confirm that the free agent has agreed to a one-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, with the deal valued at $18.5 million US. This transition marks Bassitt's fifth major-league team in his professional career, adding a new chapter to his extensive baseball journey.
Bassitt's Career Trajectory and New Role in Baltimore
Chris Bassitt, who will celebrate his 37th birthday on February 22, began his major-league career in 2014 with the Chicago White Sox, the team that drafted him in 2011. He achieved notable success during his tenure with the Oakland Athletics from 2015 to 2021, highlighted by a standout 12-4 season in 2021. Following a trade to the New York Mets before the 2022 season, Bassitt posted a 15-9 record, demonstrating his consistency and skill on the mound.
The Blue Jays originally signed Bassitt as a free agent on December 16, 2022, to a three-year contract worth $63 million. Over his three seasons with Toronto, he compiled a 37-31 record with a 3.89 ERA, proving to be a durable and reliable starting pitcher. His only stint on the disabled list during this period occurred in September 2025 due to low back inflammation, underscoring his resilience and physical conditioning.
Impact on Blue Jays and Orioles' Pitching Rotations
During the Blue Jays' 2025 playoff run, Bassitt was utilized exclusively as a relief pitcher, where he excelled by allowing just one run in 8.2 innings over seven appearances. His versatility and postseason experience were valuable assets for Toronto. Additionally, Bassitt played a pivotal role in the Blue Jays' acquisition of veteran pitcher Max Scherzer for the 2025 season, leveraging their close friendship from their time as teammates with the New York Mets in 2022.
With the Orioles, Bassitt will join a starting rotation that includes holdovers Trevor Rogers, a left-hander, and Zach Eflin, a right-hander. The Orioles have also bolstered their pitching staff by adding former Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Shane Baz through an off-season trade. Bassitt's addition is expected to provide depth and experience to Baltimore's rotation, potentially enhancing their competitive edge in the upcoming season.
Financial and Strategic Implications of the Move
The one-year, $18.5 million contract represents a strategic investment by the Orioles in a seasoned pitcher with a proven track record. For the Blue Jays, Bassitt's departure opens opportunities for other pitchers to step up, while also freeing up financial resources that could be allocated to other team needs. This move underscores the dynamic nature of MLB free agency, where player movements can significantly reshape team rosters and influence league standings.
As Bassitt embarks on this new phase with the Baltimore Orioles, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how his experience and skills contribute to the team's performance. His journey from the White Sox to the Athletics, Mets, Blue Jays, and now the Orioles highlights the ever-evolving landscape of professional baseball, where adaptability and talent are key to longevity and success.
