Blue Jays Sign Knuckleballer Matt Waldron After Padres DFA

The Toronto Blue Jays have added pitcher Matt Waldron to their roster, having recently been designated for assignment by the San Diego Padres. Waldron stands out in Major League Baseball as the sole active pitcher whose primary pitch is the knuckleball.

At nearly 30 years old, Waldron saw his most extensive playing time in 2024, pitching 146.2 innings across 27 appearances, 14 of which were starts. He recorded 133 strikeouts with a 7-11 record and a 4.26 FIP. However, his 2025 season was limited to one appearance due to a left oblique strain, and subsequent injuries, including surgery and a right triceps issue, have impacted his performance this year.

This season, Waldron has transitioned to a long relief role, making 10 appearances with only three starts. His record stands at 1-2 with a 5.09 FIP. His pitch repertoire includes the knuckleball (28%), four-seam fastball (20%), cutter (19%), sinker (17%), and slider (15%), with his fastball averaging 92 mph.

The Blue Jays, who traded away ace Kevin Gausman and placed Trey Yesavage on the injured list, have also acquired pitchers José Soriano and Jameson Taillon. Waldron is expected to primarily serve in a long relief capacity. As he has no minor league options remaining, he will directly join the major league roster. To make space, the Blue Jays moved left-handed pitcher Patrick Corbin to the 60-day injured list.