Bastardo did not make Toronto’s opening-day roster. As a Rule 5 pick, he would have to be offered back to the Boston Red Sox, or the Blue Jays could try to trade for his full rights.

The 23-year-old from Venezuela missed the entire 2025 season as he worked his way back from Tommy John surgery.

His first game action with the Blue Jays organization came in the spring, when he appeared in seven games, posting a 4.70 ERA with five strikeouts and seven walks.