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Blue Jays starter Jose Berrios battled biceps and elbow issues in 2025
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Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Tyson Shushkewich
Dec 17, 2025, 13:00 ESTUpdated: Dec 17, 2025, 12:27 EST
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Blue Jays right-hander Jose Berrios had an up-and-down 2025 campaign.
While the Puerto Rican product looked dominant at times, such as his June 21st game against the Chicago White Sox (7 2/3 IP, 2 hits, 0 ER) and on April 7th against the Boston Red Sox (7.0 IP, 4 hits, 1 ER), he equally struggled to give five or more innings on numerous occasions and allowed 77 earned runs – the same amount he allowed in 2023 and 2024 – while pitching over 20+ fewer innings compared to both seasons.
Berrios, speaking to MLB Network, outlined some of the issues he was facing in 2025.
“It was an unbelievable year, those guys gave 100% out there… I battled all year with my elbow and bicep, but the way my team competed out there, I was trying to keep out there and compete every day with them. At the end of the season, I couldn’t hold it anymore, that feeling in my arm… I had the MRI and it showed bicep tendon inflammation. Nothing major, attacked it really quick, and that’s why I didn’t pitch in the playoffs.”
Towards the end of the campaign, Berrios was moved to the bullpen with the emergence of right-hander Trey Yesavage. After making one appearance out of the bullpen, the right-hander landed on the IL and finished the season on the sidelines, his first time on the injured list over the course of his ten-year career.
He was also noticeably absent from the bench during the World Series, which raised questions from the fans and reporters. Following the offseason signings of Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce, more questions followed in regards to whether the Jays might trade Berrios and his remaining three years, $67 million owed.
“He was not happy,” explained general manager Ross Atkins at the MLB Winter Meetings last week. “He was disappointed that he wasn’t in our rotation. He handled it well, but then when it came down to roster selection, he wasn’t on it… It’s always tough when someone of his pedigree is not in the rotation… I’m sure he was not excited with that decision. Having to be the one who makes it makes it very difficult. I’d describe the relationship as solid, professional.”
It’s no secret that Berrios was disappointed in the roster move, and it will be interesting to see how the two sides move forward past this offseason. Berrios can opt out of his contract following the 2026 season, but he would be leaving considerable money on the table to test the open market in the form of $48 million. Across five seasons with the Jays, Berrios has authored a 4.09 ERA, 4.36 FIP, a 1.245 WHIP, an 8.0 K/9 and a 2.5 BB/9 through 790 1/3 innings of work.
For now, Berrios continues to get ready for the 2026 season and commented on wanting to pitch again for Puerto Rico at the upcoming World Baseball Classic tournament.
“I am on my fifth week (of throwing) already. I am trying to get back to the mound for Spring Training. Ya, I want to pitch at the WBC, I have that on mind and that is my goal. First, get through Spring Training healthy and strong, and then the WBC.”

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