The Toronto Blue Jays are officially back at the Rogers Centre tonight to kick off their 50th anniversary season. After coming within two outs of a World Series title last fall, expectations in Toronto feel about as high as they’ve ever been. The team was aggressive in the offseason to try and finish the job this time around, and now it’s just a matter of seeing if this new-look group can actually do it.
Here is a full breakdown of the 2026 Opening Day roster and how you can catch the action.
The 26-Man Roster Breakdown
The Blue Jays have finalized a balanced group with 13 pitchers and 13 position players. The core is still there, but there are a few noticeable absences and some new faces mixed in. Anthony Santander, who was a big signing a couple of offseasons ago, starts the year on the injured list with a shoulder issue. He’s joined by pitchers Jose Berrios, Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, and Yimi Garcia, so right away, the depth is going to be tested.
The Starting Rotation
With Berrios out, Kevin Gausman gets his first Opening Day start as a Blue Jay. He leads a rotation that looks a bit different, especially with the additions they made:
- Kevin Gausman (RHP)
- Dylan Cease (RHP)
- Eric Lauer (LHP)
- Cody Ponce (RHP)
- Max Scherzer (RHP)
The Bullpen
The bullpen has a mix of familiar names and one new face, including Tyler Rogers who is going to be a great addition to the bullpen:
- Louis Varland
- Tommy Nance
- Brendon Little
- Mason Fluharty
- Braydon Fisher
- Spencer Miles (Rule 5 pick)
- Tyler Rogers
- Jeff Hoffman (Closer)
Infielders
The infield has a different look this season, especially with Bo Bichette no longer with the organization after signing with the New York Mets:
- Alejandro Kirk (C)
- Tyler Heineman (C)
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B)
- Andrés Giménez (SS/2B)
- Kazuma Okamoto (3B)
- Ernie Clement (3B)
- Davis Schneider (Utility)
- Addison Barger (Utility)
Outfielders
- Daulton Varsho
- Jesús Sánchez
- Nathan Lukes
- Myles Straw
- George Springer (DH/OF).
Opening Day Starters:
The Blue Jays host the Athletics in what should be a pretty electrifying night. Before the game, they’ll raise the 2025 American League Champions banner, which is something fans haven’t had the chance to celebrate in person yet. It’s a bit of a look back at last season, but also a reminder of what this team is trying to finish this year.
Matchup: Kevin Gausman (TOR) vs. Luis Severino (A’s)
Time: 7:07 p.m. ET (Ceremonies begin around 6:30 p.m.)
Location: Rogers Centre, Toronto
Blue Jays’ Projected Opening Night Lineup:
- George Springer (DH)
- Daulton Varsho (CF)
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B)
- Addison Barger (RF)
- Alejandro Kirk (C)
- Jesús Sánchez (LF)
- Kazuma Okamoto (3B
- Ernie Clement (2B)
- Andrés Gímenéz (SS)
Bench: Tyler Heineman (C), Davis Schneider (Utility), Nathan Lukes (OF) & Myles Straw (OF)
How to Watch
If you’re not at the Rogers Centre, here are the best ways to watch and listen if you are living in Ontario or Canada:
TV: Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ (English), TVA Sports (French).
Radio: Sportsnet 590 The FAN.
Streaming: Sportsnet+ app or MLB.TV for viewers outside the Toronto market.
Blue Jays Set Opening Day Roster Ahead of 2026 Season Opener vs. Athletics