Blue Jays' Cease Impresses in Debut, Berrios Shines vs Yankees

Spring training update highlights strong performances from key Toronto pitchers

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Blue Jays' offseason acquisition Dylan Cease made an impressive spring training debut, striking out three batters including Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, while teammate José Berrios threw four scoreless innings against the Yankees.

Why it matters

The Blue Jays are counting on Cease and Berrios to anchor their starting rotation this season, so their early spring performances are an encouraging sign for the team's pitching depth and potential success.

The details

Cease allowed a solo home run but showed his electric stuff, striking out three in 1 2/3 innings. Berrios, looking to rebound from an injury-shortened 2025 season, didn't allow a hit in four scoreless frames against the Yankees. The Blue Jays ultimately won their spring game against the Phillies 7-5, with George Springer contributing two hits and a run.

  • Dylan Cease made his spring training debut for the Blue Jays on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
  • José Berrios delivered his strong outing against the Yankees earlier this week.

The players

Dylan Cease

A highly touted offseason acquisition for the Blue Jays, Cease is a power pitcher who has consistently posted high strikeout numbers in his MLB career.

José Berrios

The Blue Jays' right-hander is looking to rebound after an injury-shortened 2025 season, and his scoreless outing against the Yankees is an encouraging sign.

George Springer

The Blue Jays' veteran outfielder contributed two hits and a run in the team's spring training win over the Phillies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Blue Jays' investments in Cease and Berrios appear to be paying off early in spring training, as the team's two key pitchers showed flashes of their potential to anchor the rotation and lead the team to success this season.