Blue Jays High-End Reliever Transforms Bullpen

The Toronto Blue Jays’ bullpen has been transformed this season with the addition of offseason free agent signing Jeff Hoffman. Hoffman possesses many great qualities that make him a clutch closer. He has inevitably transformed the bullpen. Hoffman brings a lot of upside with his consistently high fastball velocity and an effective slider and sinker that allow him to thrive as a dominant reliever. Hoffman’s appeal comes from his impressive strikeout rate and respectable ERA since being in the bullpen.

Upsides of Hoffman

His high fastball velocity frustrates hitters as it is a pitch that is a challenge for hitters to hit. Hoffman has changed up his pitch mix by eliminating the changeup and curveball and zoning in on the sinker and weapon of a slider. He has demonstrated his skillset in the bullpen, which has permitted him to generate a more established and reliable role. Hoffman showcased struggles as a starter, but his career has transformed. His enhanced durability after switching to the bullpen is worth noting.

Hoffman’s reliability in the bullpen is what drew the Blue Jays to acquire him. His 2.17 ERA with the Philadelphia Phillies over the past two seasons showcases his consistency in the pen. However, a significant element that has helped him remain consistent is his mental approach. Hoffman has focused on sustaining composure on the mound and simplifying things. He is also known for his athleticism as a 6’5″, 200-pound right-handed reliever.

Hoffman Bites the Dust

Hoffman also generates a lot of groundballs, as he recorded a 37.6% groundout rate and a 27.4% flyout rate in 2024. His sinker is a pitch that gives opponents a tough time as it drops quickly, limiting their ability to drive the ball upwards. His sinker also produces ground balls, which helps him get out of innings quicker. He’s also demonstrated how he has a strong ability to locate his fastball and slider. A player who is willing to adapt their game showcases growth. Hoffman has shown this by developing his slider, which has illustrated his ability to evolve. His slider as a dominant secondary pitch indicates that he provides versatility with his pitch mix-up. Hoffman has also stabilized a compromising velocity over the last few years.

He has also illustrated how he can perform well in high-pressure situations. He showcased this by sporting a career-high 10 saves across 13 opportunities last season. As a high-stakes reliever, opponents have had a hard time generating offense with a .210 batting average. However, Hoffman’s confidence and conviction in his pitches help him do much damage. He pounds the zone with borderline pitchers, which keeps hitters off balance. Overall, he has solidified his position as a top reliever in MLB. But he’s also been exhibiting qualities of a shutdown closer, such as Tom Henke. Hoffman’s competitive nature also makes him a perfect fit in the Blue Jays’ bullpen as they look to have a rebound season this year. Relievers like Yimi Garcia, Chad Green, and Brendon Little also perform well this season.

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