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Blue Jays: Matt Bowman opts out of minor league contract
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Photo credit: © James A. Pittman-Imagn Images
Michael Coyle
Jul 4, 2026, 15:41 EDT
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The Toronto Blue Jays’ pitching depth is taking a hit.
On Friday, per the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, right-hander Matt Bowman opted out of his contract with the Blue Jays, leaving them the decision to either add him to their active roster or be forced to release him.
The Blue Jays originally signed Bowman to a minor league contract on May 27 as injuries continued to pile up throughout their organization. Bowman was originally signed by the Minnesota Twins this offseason but spent the first two months of the year in St.Paul with their Triple-A club before being released on May 20. 
Seven days later, after recording a 1-1 record, a 1.69 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP over his 14 outings spanning 21.1 innings pitched, Bowman was picked up by the Blue Jays. Unfortunately for the 35-year-old, the success he flashed with the St.Paul Saints didn’t translate to Buffalo.
Over nine games with the Bisons, Bowman went 0-1 with a 10.38 ERA and 1.50 WHIP over 8.2 innings pitched. Bowman was able to punch out nine batters but allowed opposing teams to hit .286 against him, to go along with three walks and one home run allowed. 
Bowman’s last appearance in the big leagues was last season while as a member of the Baltimore Orioles. Over 20 games with the Orioles last season, Bowman went 0-1 with a 6.20 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP across 24.2 innings pitched. 
A veteran of 231 MLB games, Bowman holds a record of 8-14 with a 4.38 ERA and a 1.30 WHIP over his seven seasons. After struggling with the Bisons, Bowman may have to settle for another minor league deal to showcase he can still contribute to a club at the games highest level.


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