MLB Odds: Shane Bieber opts in, remaining with Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Shane Bieber is opting into his $16 million player option for next season, according to multiple reports.

Here’s what you need to know.

Shane Bieber

Toronto acquired Bieber at the trade deadline from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for pitching prospect Khal Stephen. He signed a two-year, $32 million deal with Cleveland last off-season, which included a player option for 2026.

The Blue Jays took a gamble trading for Bieber as he was nearing a return from Tommy John surgery that kept him out of the lineup from April 2024 to August 2025.

The 2020 AL Cy Young winner started seven games for the Jays in the regular season, posting a 4-2 record with a 3.57 ERA over 40.1 innings. He started another four games in the playoffs, going 2-1 with a 3.86 ERA across 18.2 innings.

Set to turn 31 early next season, the veteran righty owns a 3.24 career ERA over eight seasons. He is a two-time All- Star (2019, 2021) and he won the pitching triple crown in his 2020 Cy Young season.

Toronto Blue Jays

Bieber joins Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios and Trey Yesavage as starters under contract for 2026. Chirs Bassitt and Max Scherzer are each scheduled for free agency this off-season.

Of course, Toronto is also trying to sign soon-to-be-free agent shortstop Bo Bichette.

MLB Free Agency: Will Bo Bichette be back with Blue Jays in 2026?