The Toronto Blue Jays have outrighted reliever Nick Sandlin off their 40-man roster, according to MLB.com. The move allows Sandlin to elect free agency.
It’s a cost-cutting decision that clears roster space while avoiding what would’ve been a couple million dollars in arbitration.
The Blue Jays acquired the right-hander last winter in the same deal that brought Andres Gimenez to Toronto. Sandlin came over with a solid track record – he’d posted a 3.27 ERA during his time in Cleveland.
But injuries derailed his 2024 season. A lat strain knocked him out early, then elbow inflammation kept him sidelined for good. Sandlin managed just 16.1 innings, allowing four earned runs, which actually lowered his career ERA to 3.19.
The fact that Sandlin cleared waivers tells you everything about how teams view his market value right now. Nobody wanted to pick up that arbitration salary.
What makes Sandlin intriguing is his delivery – he throws with a quirky sidewinding motion that gives hitters a completely different look than most relievers. That’s the kind of thing that can make a pitcher valuable even when the numbers aren’t elite.
He’ll likely have to settle for a prove-it deal in free agency. A minor-league contract with a spring training invite seems like the most realistic path forward.
The Blue Jays could even circle back and try to bring him back at a lower price, though it’s unclear if that’s something they’re considering. From where I’m sitting, his unique arm angle makes him worth a flyer for someone looking to add a different dimension to their bullpen.
