(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images) Getty ImagesThe Toronto Blue Jays entered the 2026 season with one of the deepest projected starting rotations in baseball, but that depth came at a cost. One veteran pitcher who hoped to remain in the rotation after an impressive playoff run instead found himself squeezed out of the club's long-term plans. And after surviving the trade deadline, he made it clear how much he appreciates the way his new organization handled the situation. Forbes Phillies Urged To Cut Alec Bohm After Luis Arraez MoveToronto Blue Jays’ Disgruntled Castoff Praises Los Angeles Dodgers Trade Deadline Message The Dodgers’ recent pickup, Eric Lauer, appeared to be one of the more obvious trade candidates before this year's deadline. The veteran left-hander had excelled after joining the Dodgers from the Blue Jays’ DFA list, but he also understood his roster spot could disappear once the club's injured starters returned.