Hoffman entered in the bottom of the eighth, loaded the bases with two hits and a walk and watched Corbin Carroll’s grand slam seal the win. The rough showing pushed his season line to 1-2 with a 7.71 ERA, one of the higher marks among relievers.
Fans Reacted on social media, with many calling for Hoffman to be replaced in the closers’ role. However, Schneider indicated there would be no immediate change, reiterating Hoffman’s status as closer and defending his use to keep a more regular workload.
Schneider’s remarks came after the loss, with the manager emphasizing that Hoffman remains the closer and that the team plans to ride him through the rough stretch rather than pivot to a different option right away.
The Jays opened the season 7-13 through 20 games, a slow start amplified by injuries to key players. While there is time to turn things around, Hoffman’s struggles are a clear concern for the club as it looks to stabilize its bullpen.
The Blue Jays do have alternative closer options if a change becomes necessary. Tyler Rogers, signed to a three-year, $37 million deal, has allowed just one earned run in nine appearances. Louis Varland has been effective as a fireman, with 0 earned runs in 11 innings across 10 outings, striking out 16 while throwing in the upper 90s and presenting a potential closer profile if needed.
