Ricky Tiedemann Joins Blue Jays Roster Ahead of Rule 5 Draft, Eyes 2026 Role
The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully added Ricky Tiedemann to their 40-man roster ahead of the upcoming Rule 5 draft, which is scheduled for December 10. This pivotal move was made in anticipation of building a robust team for the 2026 season.
Ricky Tiedemann’s Background
Ricky Tiedemann, a left-handed pitcher, has faced challenges, including a lost 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery and various injuries throughout his minor-league career. Nevertheless, he remains a valued prospect for the Blue Jays, showcasing impressive strikeout capabilities and the ability to reach upper-90s velocity.
Career Statistics and Development
- Tiedemann’s professional innings pitched have not exceeded 78 2/3 in a single season.
- In 2024, he pitched 17 1/3 innings before missing all of 2025 due to surgery.
- Prior to surgery, he reached a top velocity of 98 mph, showcasing his potential recovery strength.
Despite only averaging fewer than four innings per outing throughout his minor-league career and limited starts—no more than 18 in a season—Tiedemann’s skill set positions him as a strong asset for the Blue Jays moving forward. General Manager Ross Atkins has expressed optimism about Tiedemann’s health entering spring training.
Projected Role for 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, Tiedemann is likely to adopt a new role focusing on short-burst outings. While he may not start the season in the crowded bullpen, he is expected to be a strategic option for matchups, particularly in high-pressure situations.
The current relief team consists of notable left-handed pitchers including Brendon Little, Eric Lauer, and Mason Fluharty, with Adam Macko and Tiedemann positioned as promising alternatives.
Rule 5 Draft Considerations
With Tiedemann’s addition to the roster, the Blue Jays avoided the risk of losing him in the Rule 5 draft. Had he remained unprotected, he would likely have been selected by another team. Additionally, the Blue Jays chose not to protect several other upper-minors prospects, including:
- Josh Kasevich: An infielder noted for his defensive skills but limited by injury in 2025.
- Yohendrick Piñango: An outfielder showcasing a .790 OPS, left unprotected mainly due to the abundance in Toronto’s outfield.
- T.J. Brock and Ryan Jennings: Potential relief pitchers who may attract interest from other major league teams.
Players selected in the Rule 5 draft must remain on their team’s 26-man roster throughout the entire season or be returned to their original teams. As the Blue Jays prepare for these upcoming changes, Tiedemann’s inclusion emphasizes their commitment to building a competitive roster for 2026.
