Why the Blue Jays signed 34-year-old pitcher recently released by worst team in the National League

On August 26, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Kansas City Royals 3-0 in a pivotal game, tying the series. The Blue Jays' bullpen, following Shane Bieber's move to the injured list, played a crucial role in ending the Royals' nine-game winning streak. The Blue Jays capitalized on a few opportunities, with Nathan Lukes hitting a three-run homer in the fourth inning to secure the victory.

The Royals, led by Tyler Tobert and Carter Jensen, put pressure on the Blue Jays in the early innings, but failed to capitalize. Bobby Witt was set up for an intentional walk, but was struck out by Jac Caglianone and Salvador Perez. Randy Dobnak gave the Royals a quality start, finishing with six innings pitched, six hits, one base on balls, five strikeouts, and three earned runs. Despite the Royals' efforts, they were unable to score despite 16 consecutive batters failing to reach base in the third inning.

In the eighth inning, Carter Jensen finally got Kansas City a hit after 16 consecutive batters failed to reach base after the bases loaded situation in the third inning. However, Nick Loftin's hit in the ninth inning gave the Royals another scoring opportunity, but Isaac Collins struck out to end the game and the win streak for the Royals. The series will continue in Canada, with Noah Cameron facing Spencer Arrighetti.