Blue Jays officially sign Dolis, designate Valera

The Toronto Blue Jays have officially signed Rafael Dolis who pitched in Japan for the Hanshin Tigers for the past four seasons. Photo: Hanshin Tigers

February 8, 2020

Official Toronto Blue Jays Press Release

The Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to terms with RHP Rafael Dolis on a one-year contract (US $1,000,000) with a club option for the 2021 season. To make room on the 40-man roster, INF Breyvic Valera has been designated for assignment.

Dolis, 32, spent his 2019 season in the Japanese Central League where he posted a 2.11 ERA and recorded 19 saves over 56 appearances for the Hanshin Tigers. The 6-4, 215 lb. right-hander has pitched his last four seasons with the Tigers, accumulating a 13-18 record, 96 saves and a 2.49 ERA. He previously played in parts of three seasons for the Chicago Cubs (2011-13) and spent his 2014 and 2015 campaigns playing Triple-A ball under the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants. In his 40 Major League appearances, the La Romana, Dominican Republic, native went 2-4 with a 5.48 ERA and 25 strikeouts over 44.1 innings pitched.