logo
Former Blue Jay Eric Lauer shifted to 60-day IL, ending 2026 season
alt
Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Michael Coyle
Sep 12, 2026, 11:15 EDT
Comments
Eric Lauer’s 2026 season is over. 
On Friday night, the Los Angeles Dodgers transferred the former Toronto Blue Jay to the 60-day injured list due to left elbow inflammation, ultimately putting an end to his campaign. 
Lauer was originally placed on the 15-day IL on September 2 following his most recent outing on September 1. During that start against the St. Louis Cardinals, Lauer picked up the loss after turning in a pitching line of 3.0 IP, 8 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, in what was his worst outing since joining the Dodgers. 
The left-hander was traded from the Blue Jays to the Dodgers on May 17 for cash considerations after being designated for assignment by Toronto following a rocky start to the season. 
Through eight outings (six starts) with the Blue Jays before the trade, Lauer went 1-5 with a 6.69 ERA and a 1.49 WHIP. The 31-year-old struck out 26 batters across his 36.1 innings but allowed 11 home runs during that span. 
Lauer made headlines following an outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks in which the Blue Jays opted to use an opener to begin the game. After picking up the loss, Lauer voiced his displeasure to the media with not starting the game, and coupled with the poor start, led to him eventually being designated for assignment. 
The frustrating start to the 2026 season came on the heels of a 2025 campaign where Lauer played a big role in the Blue Jays’ success. Through 28 games (15 starts) last season, Lauer went 9-2 with a 3.18 ERA and 1.11 WHIP across 104.2 frames. Lauer found success in the playoffs, pitching to a 3.21 ERA, which included 4.2 shutout innings against the Dodgers during Game 3 of the World Series. 
Upon joining the Dodgers, Lauer pitched in 14 games (12 starts) and went 7-2 with a 4.50 ERA and a 1.22 WHIP. Lauer lowered his opponents average to .252 and struck out 46 batters across his 72 innings pitched. 
A free-agent at season’s end, this injury could cause some concerns for teams who had interest in Lauer. The lefty may have to sign another minor league contract, similar to the deal he got from the Blue Jays on December 20, 2024, when he was inked to a minor-league deal with an invitation to spring training. 

PRESENTED BY THE PERFECT 9 COLLECTION

Some baseball traditions never get old. The Perfect 9 Collection is our newest limited-edition collaboration with Blue Jays Today, inspired by the viral 9/9/9 challenge that has become a staple of baseball culture. Whether you’re taking on the challenge or just enjoying a day at the ballpark, this collection celebrates the moments that make baseball unforgettable. Featuring premium Levelwear apparel with elevated fabrics and modern fits, it’s designed for fans who live and breathe the game—on game day and beyond. Limited edition. Premium quality. Built for baseball fans. Shop the Perfect 9 Collection while it lasts. Exclusively at nationgear.ca
News
MORE NEWS. IN YOUR INBOX.
CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Breaking News