Ranking the top 10 most important young players to the Blue Jays’ future

No. 8 - RHP Yosver Zulueta

Being currently the third ranked prospect in the Jays’ system in 2023, Yosver Zulueta was the fastest rising prospect in the organization in the past year, moving through four minor league levels from Single-A all the way to Triple-A. Collectively, he had a 2-5 record with a 3.72 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, with 32 walks and 84 strikeouts in just 55 innings of work. Known for his plus 70-grade fastball that could reach triple digits consistently, Zulueta represents the hardest thrower the Jays currently have in their organization (with all due respect to Nate Pearson). He is currently being developed as both a potential future starter and/or long-reliever at Triple-A Buffalo, as he possesses the adequate arsenal to be effective in either role.

One of his main weaknesses though, and probably why he hasn’t already made his MLB debut yet, is his inconsistency with his control and command. Unfortunately, it had reared its head again this year in Buffalo, leading to his 4.37 ERA and 1.63 WHIP, with 20 walks and 26 strikeouts in just 22.2 innings pitched. Once he is able to work out his pitching mechanics in different roles and situations at the minor league level to re-establish his command, look for Zulueta to be making his MLB debut soon with the big club, since the current Jays’ bullpen lack flamethrowers with strikeout potential other than Pearson. Especially from looking at the bullpens of championship caliber teams in recent years, it appears to be an essential need for ultimate success for the team.