Overview
- The Blue Jays agreed to a minor‑league contract with right‑hander Justin Topa that was logged June 3 and will assign him to Triple‑A Buffalo rather than the major‑league roster.
- Topa had been designated for assignment and released by the Minnesota Twins late last month after the club removed him from its 40‑man roster.
- Under the deal the Twins remain responsible for the bulk of his reported $1.225 million 2026 salary and Toronto would only pay any prorated big‑league minimum if he is promoted.
- Topa has struggled this season, surrendering 17 earned runs in 19 innings with 11 walks, four home runs allowed and a sharp drop in strikeout rate and velocity compared with his 2023 peak.
- A veteran of seven MLB seasons with two Tommy John surgeries and other major injuries, Topa offers low‑cost depth if healthy and could provide long relief or bullpen help if he rediscovers his 2023 form.