Blue Jays Pitcher Jose Berrios Apologizes for 2025 World Series Absence

Veteran right-hander admits leaving team during championship run was a "bad decision"

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Jose Berrios publicly apologized for his absence during the 2025 World Series, acknowledging that leaving the team mid-series to continue rehabbing elbow inflammation created confusion and strained trust inside the clubhouse. Berrios said his intent was never to abandon his teammates, but to focus on his recovery so he could return at full strength. The apology marks the first time he has directly addressed the controversy, and teammates have indicated they are ready to move forward as the Blue Jays prepare for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Berrios' absence during the Blue Jays' World Series run was a significant storyline, as the veteran right-hander was left off the roster in favor of younger, healthier arms. His apology and acceptance of responsibility could help repair relationships within the clubhouse and allow the team to move past this turbulent chapter as they look to make another postseason push.

The details

Late in the 2025 season, inconsistent results and lingering elbow issues led to a bullpen assignment for Berrios. Blue Jays manager John Schneider ultimately left him off the World Series roster, opting for younger arms, including Trey Yesavage, as the club prioritized healthy and in-form options. Toronto advanced to the Fall Classic but fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games.

  • In late 2025, Berrios was assigned to the bullpen due to inconsistent results and elbow issues.
  • During the 2025 World Series, Berrios was left off the Blue Jays' roster.
  • On February 12, 2026, Berrios issued his public apology at the Blue Jays' player development complex in Dunedin, Florida.

The players

Jose Berrios

A veteran right-handed pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays who missed the 2025 World Series due to injury and rehab.

John Schneider

The manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, who left Berrios off the World Series roster in favor of younger, healthier pitchers.

Trey Yesavage

A young pitcher who was included on the Blue Jays' World Series roster in 2025 instead of Berrios.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The team that defeated the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2025 World Series.

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What they’re saying

“Just made one bad decision to go back home, to keep working on my rehab… I apologize. Maybe I made (that) bad decision to go back to my home.”

— Jose Berrios (Sportsnet 590 The FAN)

What’s next

As the Blue Jays prepare for the 2026 season, the rotation outlook once again places significant weight on the 31-year-old Berrios. The organization hopes accountability and renewed focus will allow both the pitcher and the club to move past this turbulent chapter and concentrate on another postseason run.

The takeaway

Berrios' apology and acceptance of responsibility for his absence during the Blue Jays' 2025 World Series run could help repair relationships within the clubhouse and allow the team to move forward as they look to make another championship push. The veteran pitcher's ability to regain trust and provide stability in the rotation will be crucial for the Blue Jays' success in the upcoming season.