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The talented Cuban pitcher Yariel Rodríguez continues to shine from the bullpen of the Toronto Blue Jays, after achieving his first career save this Wednesday in the Major League Baseball.
Against the St. Louis Cardinals, the player from Camagüey retired the last inning without complications in the Blue Jays' 5-2 victory, thus solidifying his strong season.
According to journalist Francys Romero on Facebook, so far this season, he has been pivotal in 10 victories for the team: 8 holds, one win, and now one save.
Moreover, his physical progression is evident: His fastball has increased from 93.8 MPH in 2024 to 96.0 MPH in 2025, an impressive improvement of +2.2 MPH, reflecting his hard work and adaptation to the highest level.
After a somewhat conservative start in terms of workload, the Blue Jays have gradually given him increasing responsibilities in pressure situations, relying on his ability to dominate high-caliber hitters in critical innings.
The performance from last night not only confirms that confidence, but it could mark the beginning of a new role within the Canadian bullpen.
The increase in the speed of his fastball—from 93.8 to 96.0 miles per hour—is no small feat: it indicates an adaptation to the demands of the MLB schedule, physical development, and technical adjustments that enhance his already formidable repertoire.
With a mix of aggression, command, and composure, Yariel is carving out a place among the most reliable arms in Toronto's pitching staff, and if he continues along this upward trajectory, he could aim for greater challenges, even within the team's closing staff.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yariel Rodríguez in the MLB
How has Yariel Rodríguez performed in MLB during the 2025 season?
Yariel Rodríguez has had an outstanding performance as a reliever for the Toronto Blue Jays, establishing himself as a key player in the bullpen. He has achieved his first save, been instrumental in 10 team victories, and has demonstrated an impressive improvement in the velocity of his fastball, increasing from 93.8 MPH in 2024 to 96.0 MPH in 2025.
What changes has Yariel Rodríguez made to his pitching repertoire?
Yariel Rodríguez has removed the curveball from his repertoire and has focused on a devastating slider, which has become his main weapon. This change has proven effective, as 14 of his 21 strikeouts this season have been with the slider, showcasing its efficacy in the game.
What is Yariel Rodríguez's current role with the Toronto Blue Jays?
Yariel Rodríguez has established himself as a reliever in the Blue Jays' bullpen, earning the trust of the coaching staff due to his ability to handle pressure situations. His recent success in achieving his first save suggests that he may be taking on a more prominent role, possibly as a closer in the future.
What does Yariel Rodríguez's success in the MLB mean for Cuban baseball?
Yariel Rodríguez's success in the MLB is a reflection of Cuban talent in baseball and serves as an inspiration for other players from the island who aspire to succeed in professional baseball outside of Cuba. His progress and adaptation in the Major Leagues demonstrate that Cuban ballplayers can compete at the highest level despite the challenges of leaving the country.
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