Starting pitcher Shane Bieber will remain with the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2026 season after exercising his $16 million player option. The announcement was made by the team on Wednesday. Bieber, 30, joined the Blue Jays from the Cleveland Guardians at the trade deadline this past summer. He finished the regular season with a 4-2 record and a 3.57 earned-run average (ERA) in seven starts. His performance helped solidify a starting rotation that is expected to include Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, and José Berríos. The status of free agents Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt remains uncertain. In the postseason, Bieber had a 2-1 record with a 3.86 ERA. He secured a win in Game 4 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers but faced challenges in Game 7, where he allowed a go-ahead home run to Will Smith in the 11th inning, contributing to the Blue Jays' 5-4 loss. Bieber's decision to stay with the Blue Jays comes as a surprise to some, as he could have pursued a more lucrative long-term contract in free agency. Instead, he expressed a strong connection to the team and its players. After the World Series loss, he stated, "This group is unlike any other I’ve been a part of. That’s a sentiment that we all kind of share personally. There’s a lot of love." Bieber's journey back to the mound followed Tommy John surgery in April 2024. He made a successful return to the major leagues in August, allowing two hits over six innings in his debut with Toronto. His performance during the season and playoffs has positioned him for a potential breakout year in 2026. The Blue Jays won 94 games last season, claiming the AL East Division title. They advanced through the playoffs, defeating the New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners before falling to the Dodgers in the World Series. Bieber's commitment to the Blue Jays reflects the team's growing appeal as a destination for players. He noted the support he received from teammates and the organization during his transition, saying, "It’s been an absolute pleasure." As the Blue Jays prepare for the 2026 season, which begins on March 26 against the Oakland Athletics, Bieber's return adds stability to their pitching lineup. The team will begin spring training in mid-February, aiming to build on last season's success.