In an exciting move for fans, the Toronto Blue Jays have signed right-handed pitcher Connor Overton to a minor league contract. This decision follows his impressive outing during spring training with the Mets, where he pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing only two runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts. Despite his solid performance, Overton was released by the Mets, but now he’s back with the Blue Jays, the team where he made his MLB debut in 2021.

The 31-year-old has a mixed history in the majors, appearing for the Blue Jays, Pirates, and Reds over three seasons. His career statistics total 59 1/3 innings with a 4.85 ERA. While his strikeout rate stands at 15.7% and his walk rate at 9.4%—both lower than the league averages—Overton boasts an impressive track record in Triple-A, with a 3.87 ERA across 116 1/3 innings.

The Blue Jays currently have a solid rotation with four established starters: Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, Jose Berrios, and Bowden Francis. However, they are feeling pinch from injuries, particularly with future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer sidelined due to a nerve issue affecting his pitching arm. This has led to some instability, with lefty Easton Lucas alternating between stellar performances and rough outings.

Young righty Paxton Schultz has recently made headlines, tossing 4 1/3 scoreless innings in his MLB debut, potentially solidifying his place as a fifth starter. Meanwhile, Jake Bloss, another promising right-hander at Triple-A, has had a rocky start but was once a hot prospect in the organization.

The Blue Jays, however, face significant depth issues due to injuries to key pitchers. Alek Manoah is recovering from UCL surgery and won't return until late in the season, while top prospects Ricky Tiedemann and T.J. Brock are both recovering from Tommy John surgeries. The situation is further complicated by Adam Macko's meniscus tear requiring surgery.

With these uncertainties, bringing back Overton makes strategic sense for Toronto's pitching depth. Although he won't immediately jump into the majors, if he performs well with the Buffalo Bisons, he could very well be back in a Blue Jays uniform by late next month or early summer, providing the much-needed reinforcements for the rotation. Stay tuned, Blue Jays fans—this could get interesting!