The Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a tight spot as they decide who will fill the final two roster positions. With Chase Lee, Spencer Miles, Davis Schneider, and Leo Jiménez all vying for a place, the decision is anything but straightforward. Let's dive into the battle between relievers Chase Lee and Spencer Miles to see who might snag that last bullpen spot.
Chase Lee vs. Spencer Miles: Who Gets the Nod?
The Blue Jays have some tough choices ahead. After signing Tyler Rogers post-Winter Meetings, they acquired Chase Lee from the Detroit Tigers, trading away prospect Johan Simon. Lee brings a distinctive side-arm delivery, a rarity that could add a unique flavor to the bullpen.
Meanwhile, Spencer Miles joined the team via the Rule 5 draft from the San Francisco Giants, a move that caught many by surprise. The Jays were expected to make a pick in the 2024 Rule 5 draft, selecting Angel Bastardo, but Miles' selection was unexpected.
Spring Training Showdown
Lee impressed in Spring Training with six and one-third scoreless innings over six outings and a solid 3.34 FIP. While his strikeout rate was lower than expected at 18.2%, he compensated with an impressive 75% ground ball rate. Lee's control was steady, posting a 9.1% walk rate.
On the flip side, Miles posted a 3.72 ERA and a 5.94 FIP over nine and two-thirds innings. His strikeout rate was a bit higher at 23.9%, but he also walked 10.9% of batters. Miles showed potential to provide some length in the bullpen, appearing in seven games.
Roster Implications
The decision is not just about performance. If the Jays opt for Lee, Miles will be placed on waivers, and if he clears, he’ll return to the Giants. This could mean losing a pitcher with significant upside unless a trade is arranged to keep him.
Lee, however, has option years remaining, allowing him to be sent to the minors without waivers, up to six times. This flexibility could be invaluable, but Miles’ higher ceiling might make him the more enticing choice.
The Rule 5 Draft Dilemma
Miles must remain on the 26-man roster all season due to Rule 5 rules. If he struggles, the Jays face the tough choice of waiving him and offering him back to the Giants. There are ways around this, such as placing him on the injured list temporarily, similar to what happened with Bastardo last season.
Miles’ potential is clear, with a fastball reaching 99 mph and effective off-speed pitches. His main issue has been health, having pitched just 14.2 innings in affiliated ball due to Tommy John surgery and a back injury. After missing the 2023 and 2025 seasons, he made a comeback in the Arizona Fall League.
Final Verdict
Selecting Miles seems to be the smarter play for the Blue Jays, given his higher potential and the risk of losing him permanently. Lee’s ability to be optioned offers some roster flexibility, and with Miles’ injury history, Lee might still find his way into the bullpen this season. The Jays have a delicate balancing act ahead, but the potential reward with Miles could be worth the gamble.