Blue Jays closer Louis Varland named AL Reliever of the Year
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Louis Varland has been named the inaugural American League Reliever of the Year, narrowly defeating Cleveland Guardians' Cade Smith. The award recognizes his dominant performance in the bullpen during the 2025 season.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the increasing importance of specialized relief pitching in modern Major League Baseball strategy.
LAS VEGAS – During the All-Star Game in Philadelphia this past summer, Louis Varland and Cade Smith met in the American League clubhouse and talked, closer to closer.
The Toronto Blue Jays right-hander described himself as “a big fan” of his Cleveland Guardians counterpart, calling the Canadian “just a true competitor” who “looks like a bulldog out there.”
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