Blue Jays Pitcher Jose Berrios Apologizes for Absence During Playoff Run

Berrios left the team to return home to Puerto Rico, drawing criticism from fans and the organization

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:03am

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and orange, representing the fragmented motion and emotional tension of a baseball pitcher's absence from a playoff run.A fractured, cubist depiction of a baseball pitcher's motion captures the emotional turmoil and fragmented perspective surrounding an injured player's absence from a playoff run.Bristol Today

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Jose Berrios has issued a public apology to his teammates and fans for his absence during the team's recent World Series run. Berrios, who was placed on the injured list last September due to tendon inflammation in his right elbow and bicep, decided to return home to Puerto Rico with his family, a decision he now regrets. This choice was met with some controversy, as most injured players opt to stay with their major league club during the playoffs to show solidarity with their teammates.

Why it matters

This story highlights the emotional challenges faced by athletes during high-pressure situations and the importance of team support. Berrios' decision to leave the team during the playoffs, despite being injured, was seen as a lack of commitment by some fans and the organization.

The details

Blue Jays manager John Schneider acknowledged that communication between the coaching staff and Berrios could have been better during this time. Berrios, who has been with the Blue Jays since 2021, is a key part of the team's pitching rotation and his absence was felt during the playoffs.

  • Berrios was placed on the injured list in September 2025 due to tendon inflammation in his right elbow and bicep.
  • Berrios decided to return home to Puerto Rico during the Blue Jays' playoff run in October 2025.

The players

Jose Berrios

A starting pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays who was placed on the injured list in September 2025 due to tendon inflammation in his right elbow and bicep.

John Schneider

The manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, who acknowledged that communication between the coaching staff and Berrios could have been better during his absence.

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What they’re saying

“We must have better communication between the coaching staff and our players, especially during high-pressure situations like the playoffs.”

— John Schneider, Manager, Toronto Blue Jays

“I made a mistake in leaving my team during such an important time. I regret my decision and I'm sorry to my teammates and the fans for letting them down.”

— Jose Berrios

What’s next

The Blue Jays organization is expected to work on improving communication with injured players during the playoffs to ensure they feel supported and connected to the team, even if they are unable to contribute on the field.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for professional sports teams to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of their players, especially during high-pressure situations like the playoffs. It also underscores the importance of clear communication and fostering a strong team culture to help players feel valued and supported, even when they are unable to contribute directly to the team's success.