Just days after the Blue Jays’ heartbreaking World Series loss to the Dodgers, veteran starting pitcher Shane Bieber has made his decision regarding his future with the franchise.
Bieber’s contract includes a $16 million player option for the 2026 season. Rather than hit the open market and test free agency, the 30-year-old has decided to pick up the option and return to Toronto for another year, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman.
As such, Bieber will be on the books at a cost of $16 million in 2026 before hitting free agency in 2027.
It’s a logical choice for Bieber. A former Cy Young and Triple Crown winner in Cleveland, he’s dealt with injuries over the last two years. He was limited to just two starts in 2024 and seven starts in ’25, and has not made more than 30 appearances in a season since 2022. Now, he’ll hope to stay healthy and showcase his stuff throughout a full season of work with the Blue Jays.
In 2025, Bieber had a 3.57 ERA with 37 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings. He made five appearances in the postseason and had a 3.86 ERA and two wins.
He’ll slot back into the Blue Jays’ rotation that’s expected to consist of Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios and Trey Yesavage. Other starters Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer are both due to hit free agency.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Shane Bieber Decides on Future With Blue Jays Days After World Series Loss.
