Toronto Blue Jays’ Bo Bichette fields a ball during a World Series baseball media day (Image via AP Photo) The Toronto Blue Jays made a roster move on March 18, 2026, releasing five minor league players just before the end of Spring Training. The group included Damiano Palmegiani, Dahian Santos, Bo Bonds, Jacob Wetzel, and Nicolas Deschamps, all of whom were part of the system but had not secured a steady role.The decision came about 10 days before Opening Day and reflects how the team is shaping its roster. The focus is now on players who are available, progressing, and able to contribute as the season approaches.
Toronto Blue Jays Roster Cuts Driven by Depth and Timing
These were outright releases from minor league deals, not trades. The move came down to roster space in a system that has become more competitive across levels.Spring Training acted as a final evaluation period. The players released were unable to move ahead due to injuries or limited progress. There were no off-field issues tied to the decision. It was a straightforward roster call in a crowded system.
Injuries and Stalled Development Played a Role
All five players had trouble staying on the field. Repeated injuries affected their development and limited their chances to build consistency.Palmegiani, once seen as a power option, spent time on development lists and the injured list over the past two seasons. Bonds and Santos showed some effectiveness, but their innings were limited by injuries. At ages between 23 and 26, they were nearing a point where progress becomes necessary to stay in the system. 
Toronto Blue Jays Shortstop Bo Bichette (Image via Getty)
Toronto’s approach shows a clear shift toward valuing availability along with performance.
Player Profiles and Key Stats
PlayerPositionAge (as of March 2026)BornDrafts/Signed2025 MiLB Stats (Key)Career MiLB OPS/ERAInjury Notes Damiano Palmegiani 3B/1B 26 Caracas, VEN 2021 Rd 14 .159 AVG, 1 HR, 18 RBI (176 AB) .766 OPS Multiple dev list, IL 2024-25 Dahian Santos RHP ~23 N/A International FA 6.00 ERA (27 IP, AA) N/A Forearm/elbow, 60-day IL multiple years Bo Bonds RHP 25 N/A 2022 Rd 13 3.34 ERA, 1.03 WHIP (35 IP, A+) N/A IL retro to Jun 2025, prior setbacks; 78.1 IP in 4 yrs Jacob Wetzel OF 25 (Mar 26 bday) Walkersville, MD Rule 5 AAA 2024 from CHC .000 AVG (2 AB, ST) N/A Frequent 7-day IL, dev list Nicolas Deschamps C ~24 Quebec, CAN N/A Limited minors N/A Organizational release focusThe numbers show limited output, largely due to missed time. Palmegiani’s production dropped, while Bonds had solid numbers in short stretches without building volume.
Organizational Impact and Player Outlook
For Toronto Blue Jays, the move opens spots in the system and allows room for other prospects, especially those moving through Double-A. It also reduces reliance on players who have not been available regularly.For the players, this is a chance to find new opportunities. Bonds and Santos could attract interest based on their metrics, while Palmegiani’s earlier power numbers may still draw attention. Independent leagues or overseas options remain possible.
Weighing the Decision
The Toronto Blue Jays benefit from a clearer depth chart and avoid continuing with players who have not progressed. It also shows a direct approach as the team prepares for the season.There is still a chance that one of these players improves elsewhere. For the players, the next step is to rebuild value without major league experience, while dealing with past injury concerns.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Boston Red Sox predicted to part ways with $90 million star ahead of Opening Day to improve rotation and title oddsThis move reflects a practical decision by Toronto Blue Jays. The team has chosen to move forward with players who are healthier and more consistent. The released players now look for new teams, while the Blue Jays enter the 2026 season with a more defined system.