Blue Jays ace closer Louis Varland captures AL reliever of year award

During the All-Star Game in Philadelphia, Toronto Blue Jays closer Louis Varland and Cleveland Guardians counterpart Cade Smith discussed their roles as relievers. Smith, who had seen Varland switch between starting and relieving for the Minnesota Twins, praised Varland's work ethic and competitive spirit. Varland, in turn, admired Smith's pitching ability.

As a result of their mutual respect, both players were named to the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA) inaugural American League Reliever of the Year voting. Varland received 16 first-place votes and 146 total points, narrowly beating Smith, who had seven first-place votes and 133 total points. Bryan Baker of the Tampa Bay Rays, a former Blue Jays prospect, finished third with six first-place votes and 111 points.

Varland won the award after taking over as closer for the Blue Jays during the postseason, posting a 1.27 ERA over 78 innings and 35 saves in 71 games. His changeup became a key weapon against left-handed hitters after a grip adjustment from pitching coach Graham Johnson.