The Toronto Blue Jays are just weeks away from kicking off the 2026 Major League Baseball season. The club will soon reveal its official roster and starting rotation. Two pitchers, if healthy, could have been part of a head-to-head debate.

We already know the mainstays in the rotation, including obvious names like Kevin Gausman, a healthy Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage, and Dylan Cease.

Eric Lauer and Max Scherzer also appear on the depth chart for the starting pitching staff. In addition, pitchers José Berríos and Cody Ponce are in the mix. Both are strong candidates for a starting spot despite some recent unforeseen circumstances. The question is: which one is the better option?

The Blue Jays recently suffered a short-term loss with José Berríos, who is sidelined with a right elbow stress fracture. The injury is not considered severe at this point and is being monitored for a potential return.

That said, the right-hander could still factor into the rotation. Since joining the club, Berríos has been part of the mix but has experienced some decline, transitioning from a starting role while battling injuries to time in the bullpen. Berríos also faced controversy following his decision to step away from the team during the 2025 World Series. It appears those issues have passed, and he is willing to put in the work to return to form.

His performances in 2018–2019, along with his 2023 season in Toronto, serve as strong benchmarks. Overall, Berríos has a solid track record, consistently eating innings and providing valuable depth.

Before his injury, Berríos showed positive signs in his return to big league action, posting 10 2/3 innings with seven strikeouts, four walks, four earned runs, and eight hits allowed.

His projections for 2026 are promising, but ultimately, his effectiveness will depend on his health. Berríos may need to begin the season in the bullpen and gradually work his way back into the rotation under load management.

Cody Ponce presents a compelling option as he looks to solidify his place in the big leagues. He has already demonstrated his capabilities, which earned him an opportunity in Toronto.

Ponce’s performance in the KBO with Hanwha was outstanding, as he posted a 17–1 record with a 1.89 ERA, 252 strikeouts, and 180 2/3 innings pitched. While those numbers are impressive, they did not come at the Major League level. His experience in the American League East is limited, but his Spring Training performance has been encouraging.

In an outing against the New York Yankees on March 19, Ponce delivered 5 2/3 innings, allowing just one hit, no runs, and striking out five. This improved his spring record to 2–0, with a 0.66 ERA across five starts, along with 12 strikeouts in 13 2/3 innings. With Yesavage, Bieber, and Berrios starting the campaign on the IL, Ponce is a lock for the rotationf or now.

At this point, Ponce appears to have the edge due to his health, performance, and confidence. He is carrying over his previous success into spring training and could be a valuable contributor in either the rotation or bullpen.

Meanwhile, Berríos remains in limbo due to his health, and his recent track record has been inconsistent. For now, Ponce seems like the more reliable option.