Blue Jays Release Former Top-20 Pitching Prospect

Connor Cooke was once a top relief prospect, but his career has taken a downward turn after Tommy John surgery.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 1:06am

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The Toronto Blue Jays have released right-handed pitching prospect Connor Cooke, who was once ranked as the organization's 20th-best prospect in 2024. Cooke struggled with a 4.55 ERA in Triple-A in 2024 before undergoing Tommy John surgery, which cost him the entire 2025 season. Now 26 years old, the former 10th-round pick was let go by the Blue Jays just one day before their 2026 season opener.

Why it matters

Cooke's release highlights the challenges that top prospects can face in trying to make it to the major leagues, especially after undergoing significant injuries like Tommy John surgery. The Blue Jays are gearing up for another playoff push, so they had to make tough roster decisions, including parting ways with a once-promising arm.

The details

Cooke was ranked as the Blue Jays' 20th-best prospect in 2024 after making 33 appearances for their Triple-A affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons, that year. However, he struggled with a 4.55 ERA before undergoing Tommy John surgery, which cost him the entire 2025 season. Now 26 years old, the Blue Jays have decided to part ways with Cooke, who was once seen as a potential relief option at the major league level.

  • Cooke was released on March 27, 2026, just one day before the Blue Jays' 2026 season opener.
  • Cooke made 33 appearances for the Buffalo Bisons in 2024.

The players

Connor Cooke

A former top-20 pitching prospect in the Toronto Blue Jays' organization who was released after struggling with injuries and performance issues.

Toronto Blue Jays

A Major League Baseball team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, that is gearing up for another playoff push in 2026.

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The takeaway

Cooke's release serves as a reminder that even top prospects can face significant challenges in their professional careers, especially when dealing with major injuries like Tommy John surgery. The Blue Jays' decision to part ways with Cooke highlights the tough roster decisions teams must make as they strive for success at the major league level.