Trent Thornton
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2020Wowies3030401370180.218910969158285.43
2021Wowies00000000.0000000.00
2022Wowies1900000045.245323038106.31
2023Wowies30000101.13301120.26
2024Lightning1800020030.1201783115.04
2025Lightning30000014.2610211.93
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 21 2025Thornton threw 2.1 scoreless innings of relief before exiting Saturday's eventual 10-7 loss to the Cubs due to heat exhaustion per Daniel Kramer of MLB.com. He allowed one hit and two walks while fanning three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton had to be helped off the field in the eighth inning, but he's not expected to require additional medical treatment away from the team. After throwing a season-high 51 pitches Saturday, Thornton figures to get a few days off before he's available out of Seattle's bullpen again anyway. The 31-year-old right-hander missed about a month of action due to appendicitis earlier this year, and he's mostly struggled with a 6.35 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 17:10 K:BB over 22.2 innings.
Jun 7 2025The Mariners reinstated Thornton (abdomen) from the 15-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton landed on the 15-day injured list May 9 due to appendicitis, and it took three weeks for him to recover enough to embark on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. He'll claim the spot in the Mariners' bullpen that was vacated by Casey Lawrence, who was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. Thornton posted a 5.87 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, five holds and an 11:4 K:BB across 15.1 innings prior to his stint on the IL.
May 31 2025Thornton (abdomen) started a minor-league rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma on Friday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton, who is recovering from appendicitis, tossed 16 pitches and fanned two in a scoreless inning Friday. The 31-year-old veteran right-hander has been on the injured list since May 9, but he's now tracking toward a return to Seattle's bullpen sometime around the first or second week of June. Thornton has a 5.87 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 11:4 K:BB over 15.1 innings this season, and he'll likely work as a middle reliever once he rejoins the Mariners.
May 9 2025The Mariners placed Thornton on the 15-day injured list Friday with appendicitis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton will be eligible for activation May 21, but an appendectomy could result in a longer than minimum stay on the IL for the reliever. Troy Taylor is taking Thornton's spot in the bullpen.
Jan 9 2025The Mariners and Thornton avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $2 million contract Thursday, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has turned into a quality reliever for the Mariners, collecting a 3.20 ERA and 98:24 K:BB over 98.1 frames. The right-hander is slated for a middle relief role again in 2025.
Sep 9 2024Thornton (4-3) got the win against the Cardinals on Sunday, firing two scoreless innings during which he allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton played a pivotal role in the Mariners' pitching plans Sunday, providing two nearly perfect innings following an earlier-than-expected call from the bullpen due to Luis Castillo's exit as a result of a hamstring strain. Thornton threw 28 pitches over his two frames and produced his 10th scoreless appearance in his last 11 outings, lowering his ERA under 4.00 (3.99) in the process. Thornton's versatility has been leveraged frequently this season, as he's logged a career-high 64 appearances that have helped him to a career-best nine holds and his most wins since he was primarily a starter for the Blue Jays in his rookie 2019 campaign.
Sep 4 2024Thornton (3-3) took the loss against the Athletics on Tuesday, allowing an earned run on two hits and a walk over one-third of an inning. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was tasked with preserving a 2-2 tie when he entered in the ninth, and after retiring the dangerous Brent Rooker looking, he never recorded another out. Seth Brown would subsequently walk it off for the Athletics with a single that plated JJ Bleday, snapping an eight-appearance scoreless streak for Thornton and saddling him with his first loss since July 22. The veteran right-hander has been a mostly effective workhorse option for Seattle, but his presence in a high-leverage spot Tuesday may have been at least partly due to the fact closer Andres Munoz is battling elbow soreness.
Jun 27 2024Thornton recorded the first save of his MLB career in a win over the Rays on Wednesday, firing a perfect ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Ryne Stanek worked the eighth and Andres Munoz faltered with the save opportunity to open the ninth, failing to record an out and leaving Thornton to inherit a bases-loaded jam. The right-hander deftly managed the dangerous scenario, inducing a fielder's choice groundout from Richie Palacios that allowed Josh Lowe to score but then retiring Amed Rosario on a game-ending double play. The one run went on Munoz's tab, affording Thornton his sixth scoreless outing in his last eight trips to the mound -- including his third straight -- as well as his first career save.
Jun 13 2024Thornton (3-1) got the win over the White Sox on Wednesday, firing a scoreless ninth inning during which he recorded a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a bit of welcome deja vu for Thornton on Wednesday, as he captured a victory against the White Sox via a crisp 11-pitch outing for the second straight night. The right-hander has lowered his ERA and WHIP down to 3.30 and 1.03, respectively, impressive figures that complement his trio of victories and eight holds across 30 appearances.
Jun 12 2024Thornton (2-1) got the win against the White Sox on Tuesday, firing 1.2 scoreless innings while recording two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was rewarded for his pristine work -- he cruised through his six-out outing on 11 pitches, 10 of which found the strike zone -- when Cal Raleigh drove home the tying and go-ahead runs in the home half of the seventh inning after the reliever had thrown his last pitch. Thornton has bounced back from a rare stumble against the Angels on May 31 (three runs allowed over two-thirds of an inning) to produce scoreless efforts in three of his subsequent four appearances, a span in which he's recorded a pair of holds in addition to Tuesday's win.
Apr 29 2024Thornton (0-1) took the loss against the Diamondbacks on Sunday, allowing an earned run on a hit and a walk over one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was entrusted with preserving a 2-2 tie when he entered in the eighth inning, but he set himself up for some trouble by issuing a leadoff walk to Kevin Newman and subsequently surrendered a double to Ketel Marte that plated him with the go-ahead run. The Mariners would prove unable to overcome the one-run deficit, saddling Thornton with the loss. The stumble snapped what had been a near month-long stretch of impressive pitching for Thornton, who hadn't allowed a run in 10 consecutive appearances and had lowered his ERA from 13.50 to 0.84 in the process.
Mar 15 2024Thornton has pitched 4.2 innings across five Cactus League appearances, allowing four runs (two earned) on three hits and four walks while recording two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander's numbers are a bit deceiving, as all of his trouble has come in just two of those outings. Thornton has otherwise posted a trio of one-inning scoreless appearances after impressing last season following his arrival in a trade with the Blue Jays. The 30-year-old has 36 career starts at the big-league level, and Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports that manager Scott Servais plans to deploy Thornton in a multi-inning role out of the bullpen when necessary.
Jan 11 2024Thornton signed a one-year, $1.2 million contract with the Mariners on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton proved to be a valuable addition to Seattle's bullpen after he was traded from Toronto in July. He logged a 2.08 ERA and 1.08 WHIP through 26 innings with the Mariners and figures to be used often in high-leverage situations in 2024.
Sep 12 2023Thornton (0-2) took the extra-innings loss against the Angels on Monday, allowing three unearned runs on two hits over one-third of an inning. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton entered in the 11th inning hoping to preserve a 5-5 tie and got matters off on the right foot with a strikeout of Logan O'Hoppe before allowing consecutive singles, the latter plating automatic runner Kyren Paris. That led to Thornton's exit, but he was subsequently charged with two more unearned runs that were helped along by fielding errors. Thornton has now allowed at least one unearned run in three straight appearances following a stretch of eight straight scoreless outings, yet he still carries a stellar 1.85 ERA across 24.1 innings over 20 appearances between the Blue Jays and Mariners this season.
Sep 9 2023Thornton will serve as the Mariners' opening pitcher Saturday against the Rays, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Like many relievers, Thornton broke into the big leagues as a starter, but he's pitched exclusively in relief for the past three seasons, with his three "starts" in 2021 were similar opener appearances. Thornton has thrown two innings in each of his last two appearances, but he's unlikely to throw much more than that Saturday before turning the game over to Luke Weaver, who is expected to work in bulk relief.
Aug 14 2023Thornton (0-1) took the extra-inning loss against the Orioles on Sunday, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits over one inning. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton's outing was actually better than his final line would indicate, as his one major mistake was a four-seam fastball that Cedric Mullins deposited in the right-field bleachers with Gunnar Henderson aboard for what would prove to be the game-winning homer. Thornton owned a solid 2.53 ERA and 9.3 K/9 across 10.2 innings between his time with the Blue Jays and Mariners coming into Sunday, so he's largely been a trustworthy bullpen option. It's worth noting his appearance in such a high-leverage spot was atypical and the byproduct of Justin Topa, Matt Brash and Andres Munoz all having already worked an inning apiece earlier in the game.
Aug 1 2023The Mariners recalled Thornton from Triple-A Tacoma on Tuesday ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was acquired by the Mariners from Toronto on Wednesday and will now make his way to the big-league club after throwing one scoreless inning in Tacoma. Thornton has allowed one run over 5.1 frames in the majors this season and figures to serve in middle relief while in Seattle.
Jul 26 2023The Mariners acquired Thornton from the Blue Jays on Wednesday in exchange for Mason McCoy, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton had been designated for assignment last week and now lands in another organization. The right-hander has posted a 4.77 ERA over 108 appearances -- 35 starts -- at the major-league level covering parts of five seasons. Thornton has pitched almost exclusively as a reliever since 2021.
Jul 21 2023Thornton was designated for assignment Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move clears a spot on the 40-man roster for the newly-acquired Genesis Cabrera. Thornton has pitched well during his brief time in the majors this season but has spent the bulk of the year at Triple-A Buffalo, where he's posted a 4.18 ERA in 22 relief appearances.
Jul 1 2023The Blue Jays optioned Thornton to Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has thrown 5.1 major-league innings this season, and he surrendered his first earned run of the year Friday against Boston. He'll now head back to Triple-A, where he holds a 3.04 ERA and 1.51 WHIP through 23.2 frames. Thomas Hatch will come up from Buffalo to replace Thornton, though Thornton could return to Toronto if he keeps performing well in the minors.
Jun 19 2023The Blue Jays recalled Thornton from Triple-A Buffalo on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll join the big club for the first time this season after he had previously been optioned to Triple-A late in spring training. Over 23.2 innings out of the Buffalo bullpen, Thornton pitched to a 3.04 ERA, 1.51 WHIP and 22:14 K:BB. He'll presumably be limited to lower-leverage spots in relief while he's up with the big club.
Mar 25 2023Thornton was optioned to Triple-A by the Blue Jays on Saturday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton will begin the season in the minors after posting a 6.48 ERA and 1.20 WHIP over 8.1 innings in the Grapefruit League. The right-hander was relatively effective with a 4.11 ERA over 32 appearances with Toronto in 2022, but he'll be an up-and-down option for the Blue Jays to begin -- and likely end -- the 2023 campaign.
Jan 13 2023Thornton and the Blue Jays agreed on a one-year, $1 million contract Friday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton and the team will now avoid arbitration after making a deal Friday. The right-hander compiled a 4.11 ERA and 1.24 WHIP with 37 strikeouts and three holds over 46 innings in 32 appearances with Toronto in 2022.
Oct 7 2022Thornton did not make the Blue Jays' 26-man wild-card roster, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton failed to make the postseason roster after he was called up Wednesday to pitch in Toronto's doubleheader versus the Orioles, tossing two hitless innings while striking out a batter. After posting a 4.11 ERA over 32 appearances this season, the right-hander seems unlikely to be considered for an active roster spot moving forward this postseason.
Oct 5 2022The Blue Jays recalled Thornton from Triple-A Buffalo ahead of the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader with the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Mitch White was optioned to the minors after covering four innings of relief in the Blue Jays' 5-4 loss to the Orioles in Game 1. Thornton will give Toronto another fresh relief arm for the regular-season finale.
Aug 17 2022Thornton was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was called up by Toronto on Aug. 7 and made four relief appearances for the big-league club since then. He struck out six while posting a 4.50 ERA and 1.17 WHIP in six innings but will head back to the minors after Ross Stripling (hip) was reinstated from the 15-day injured list Wednesday.
Aug 7 2022The Blue Jays recalled Thornton from Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton will fortify the Toronto bullpen after the Blue Jays placed left-hander Tim Mayza (shoulder) on the 15-day injured list in a corresponding move. Over his 27 relief appearances with the big club this season spanning 38 innings, Thornton has compiled a 4.26 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 30:15 K:BB.
Aug 6 2022Thornton was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has spent three separate stints in the big-league bullpen this season, posting a 4.26 ERA in 38 innings overall. His latest opportunity with the team lasted just a week and saw him make just a single appearance. Mitch White was called up to take his place on the roster.
Jul 30 2022Thornton was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was sent down in early July but posted a 1.08 ERA and 1.56 WHIP in 8.1 innings over six minor-league appearances since then. The right-hander should serve as a multi-inning reliever in the Blue Jays' bullpen after Max Castillo was optioned to Triple-A on Saturday.
Jul 6 2022The Blue Jays optioned Thornton to Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Toronto will swap Thornton out of its bullpen for another right-handed option in Casey Lawrence, who was called up from Triple-A in a corresponding move. After rejoining the Blue Jays on May 31, Thornton appeared in 16 games and turned in a 4.98 ERA and 1.34 WHIP across 21.2 innings.
Jul 1 2022Thornton gave up a hit and struck out one in a scoreless seventh inning Thursday to record his second hold of the season in a win over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With closer Jordan Romano getting a rest, Adam Cimber handled the ninth inning and David Phelps the eighth, opening up a high-leverage setup spot for Thornton as he protected a 2-1 lead. The right-hander is prone to occasional blowups, but he posted a solid 4.08 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 15:4 K:BB through 17.2 innings in June, and his ability to work in a variety of roles should keep him busy in the second half for Toronto.
May 31 2022The Blue Jays recalled Thornton from Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll join the big club ahead of Tuesday's series opener with the White Sox and will serve as a replacement in the bullpen for lefty Ryan Borucki, who was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. Thornton previously made 10 relief appearances for Toronto earlier this season, compiling a 3.52 ERA and 1.30 WHIP across 15.1 innings.
May 14 2022Thornton was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was part of the Blue Jays' Opening Day bullpen, and he posted a 3.52 ERA and 1.30 WHIP in 15.1 innings over 10 relief appearances. However, he'll head to the minors after Hyun Jin Ryu (forearm) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list.
Apr 5 2022Manager Charlie Montoyo said Tuesday that Thornton will be part of the Blue Jays' Opening Day bullpen, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton will join Ross Stripling as one of two long-relief options out of the bullpen. The role likely won't lend itself to much high-leverage work, as most of Thornton's usage is expected to come in mop-up situations or in the middle innings. He made 34 of his 37 appearances out of the bullpen for Toronto in 2021 and didn't record a hold or save.
Sep 13 2021The Blue Jays optioned Thornton to Triple-A Buffalo on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Toronto will cycle Thornton out of its bullpen for a fresher arm in lefty Ryan Borucki, who was recalled from Buffalo in a corresponding move. Thornton was unlikely to be available to pitch for at least two days after he struck out four and gave up a run in two innings of relief in Sunday's 22-7 win over the Orioles.
Sep 12 2021The Blue Jays recalled Thornton from Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton's fresh arm joins the team in Baltimore and will provide additional bullpen depth for the series finale. He takes the active roster spot of Anthony Castro, whom the Blue Jays optioned Sunday.
Aug 31 2021Thornton was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton owns an unremarkable 4.60 ERA in 47 major-league innings this season. He's allowed four runs on 11 hits in 7.2 innings of work during his latest stint with the team. He'll head to the minors as the Blue Jays clear a spot for Danny Jansen (hamstring) to return from the injured list.
Aug 11 2021Thornton was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton served as the 27th man in Tuesday's doubleheader, and he'll remain in the bullpen after he allowed a run on a hit and no walks in one relief inning Wednesday. Right-hander Patrick Murphy was designated for assignment as part of a move to make room for Thornton.
Aug 10 2021Thornton was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo to serve as the 27th man for Tuesday's doubleheader against the Angels, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton served as the extra man for Saturday's twin bill against Boston but did not appear in either game before being sent back to Buffalo. The right-hander will once again join the Blue Jays' bullpen Tuesday in Anaheim before likely being sent back to Triple-A.
Aug 7 2021Thornton was added as the 27th man for Saturday's doubleheader against Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton should be able to give the Blue Jays length out of the bullpen if called upon in either contest, though he's unlikely to pitch in a high-leverage situation. In 39.1 major-league innings this season, he owns an unremarkable 4.58 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.
Jul 31 2021The Blue Jays optioned Thornton to Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty appeared in two games after being recalled Sunday, allowing one hit and striking out one in 1.2 scoreless innings. With a 4.58 ERA in 39.1 innings this season, Thornton has certainly pitched well enough to earn further opportunities with the big-league club. Alek Manoah (back) was activated from the 10-day injured list in a corresponding move Saturday.
Jul 25 2021Thornton was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton is back with Toronto after spending nearly the past three weeks in the minors. The right-hander has a 4.78 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 41:14 K:BB across 37.2 innings this season, and he should be a low-leverage option out of the bullpen for the Blue Jays.
Jul 7 2021Thornton was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo prior to Wednesday's game against the Orioles, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton's demotion comes as no surprise, as he's allowed a combined eight earned runs across his last four relief appearances. Newly acquired Trevor Richards will take his spot on the 26-man roster.
Jun 26 2021Thornton (1-3) took the loss Friday as the Blue Jays fell 6-5 to the Orioles, walking three batters and giving up an unearned run in the 10th inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander tossed only 13 of 29 pitches for strikes as he issued free passes to Anthony Santander, Maikel Franco and Pat Valaika to bring home Baltimore's courtesy runner in the 10th. Thornton is having a rough June, posting a 6.97 ERA through 10.1 innings, but his issues had been with the long ball -- he has allowed four homers this month -- and not control, as he had issued only one walk in June while striking out 13 batters. He figures to remain in a long-relief role until he begins to sort things out.
May 24 2021Thornton allowed five runs (zero earned) on two hits and two walks while striking out two in one innings Monday against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: None of the five runs to cross the plate in the first inning were earned due to a fielding error, but Thornton struggled to record the first three outs in his appearance as Toronto's opener. Before fanning the final batter of the frame, he walked in a run and gave up a grand slam. Following his latest outing, the right-hander owns a 2.59 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 24:10 K:BB across 24.1 innings on the season.
May 14 2021Thornton (1-1) allowed two runs on a hit and two walks with three strikeouts in 1.2 innings, taking the loss Friday versus Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton had little trouble in the sixth inning, but he walked two batters in the seventh, and Tim Mayza allowed both of his inherited runners to score. That left Thornton with the loss. He has a 3.15 ERA,1.25 WHIP and 18:8 K:BB across 20 innings this season. Thornton has logged more than one inning in 10 of his 12 appearances, so he's unlikely to see much work in the late innings.
May 12 2021Thornton (1-0) allowed a double but did not allow a run as he picked up the win over Atlanta on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was called upon to pitch in the seventh and surrendered a double to Christian Pache after getting two easy outs but was able to get out of the inning with no harm done. The Blue Jays tacked on three runs in the eighth and were able to hold on 5-3 which secured the 27-year-old with his first win since September of 2019. Thornton has a solid 2.45 ERA over 18.1 innings but his 1.20 WHIP suggests he's still letting men on too often.
Apr 27 2021Thornton didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the Nationals. He gave up two runs on three hits while fanning two across 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton worked as the opener and didn't stay enough in the game to take part in the decision, but his final stat line didn't turn head by any means. Toronto is still waiting on Nate Pearson (groin) and Ross Stripling (forearm) to return from the injured list, so Thornton might remain in the rotation for the short-term future.
Apr 21 2021Thornton pitched two innings against Boston on Wednesday, allowing no runs on two hits without walking or striking out a batter. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton made his first start of the campaign Wednesday, but he was limited to 25 pitches despite yielding only two hits. The right-hander started 29 games during his rookie season in 2019 before elbow issues held him to just three appearances last season. He could work his way back into a traditional starting role at some point, but for now his role seems to be confined to that of a long reliever and short-inning opener.
Apr 20 2021Thornton will start Wednesday's game at Boston, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old will make his first start of the season in Wednesday's series finale, and he figures to be limited to a few innings since he's topped out at 34 pitches through five appearances this season. Anthony Kay and Tommy Milone should be in the mix as bulk options behind Thornton.
Apr 4 2021Thornton is expected to piggyback starter T.J. Zeuch in Sunday's game against the Yankees, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Thornton missed out on a spot in the Blue Jays' Opening Day rotation, the coaching staff wants to keep him stretched out in the event the team's starting depth takes more hits as the season goes along. Since Zeuch maxed out at three innings over his four Grapefruit League outings, he likely won't be asked to work deep into his first start of the regular season, leaving the door open for Thornton to work as a bulk reliever. Zeuch isn't expected to make more than one turn through the rotation, so Thornton could transition into more of a multi-inning relief role after Sunday.
Mar 28 2021The Blue Jays informed Thornton that he would be included on the Opening Day roster as a member of the bullpen, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Keegan Matheson of MLB.com, manager Charlie Montoyo said the Blue Jays are still planning to develop Thornton as a starter, but the organization's ample rotation depth will force him to bide his time in the bullpen until an injury or two opens up an opportunity for him. Thornton should deliver better ratios while he works in relief, but the lower volume of innings and less predictable pitching schedule will make it tough to mine fantasy value from him.
Mar 25 2021Thornton gave up three hits and a walk over three scoreless innings during Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first start of the spring, Thornton tossed 47 pitches (31 strikes) and shut down a lineup that featured all of the Yankees' big bats aside from Luke Voit. The right-hander's late start to camp has prevented him from factoring into the rotation mix to begin the regular season, but Thornton could provide valuable innings in long relief behind a potentially shaky starting five aside from Hyun Jin Ryu.
Mar 20 2021Thornton struck out four over two perfect innings in his first Grapefruit League action of the year Friday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw 20 of his 27 pitches for strikes. Thornton had a delayed start to camp as he recovered from September surgery to remove bone spurs from his elbow, so he may not have time to get stretched out for a rotation role despite the team's need in that area, but he could still provide valuable innings right away as the Jays look to cover for the absence of Nate Pearson (groin).
Mar 15 2021Thornton (elbow) is expected to make his Grapefruit League debut Friday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has been brought along slowly this spring as he works his way back from September surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow. He could still have time to get fully up to speed by Opening Day, though there's no guarantee he spends that day as a member of the major-league roster. The Blue Jays intend to have Thornton stretch out for starting duty this spring, but the team doesn't appear to have a spot open in the rotation for him.
Feb 20 2021Thornton is stretching out as a starter in camp, though the Blue Jays may wind up using him in a relief role, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton made three starts last season but lasted a combined 5.2 innings and gave up seven runs. He was shut down with an elbow injury, though he's throwing without restrictions to start camp. In a full season as primarily a starter in 2019, his 4.84 ERA certainly didn't turn many heads. A bullpen role is his clearest path to big-league innings this season, though he could wind up remaining stretched out as a starter in the minors.
Feb 19 2021General manager Ross Atkins said Friday that Thornton (elbow) is beginning spring training with no restrictions, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was able to avoid Tommy John surgery and instead had loose bodies removed from his right elbow at the start of September, but he's ready to go for the start of spring workouts. Thornton struggled before being shut down in 2020 with seven runs and 15 hits allowed over 5.2 innings, and he faces long odds of cracking the Blue Jays' starting rotation to open 2021.
Sep 1 2020Thornton underwent surgery to remove loose bodies in his right elbow Tuesday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tommy John surgery appeared to be potentially on the table when it was reported Monday that Thornton was meeting with Dr. James Andrews, but the procedure he wound up undergoing was a different one. He's expected to be ready to go for the start of the 2021 campaign.
Aug 31 2020Thornton (elbow) will visit Dr. James Andrews, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Andrews' name has become synonymous with Tommy John surgery, though previous reports indicated that Thornton wasn't expected to go under the knife to address his elbow injury, which has been described as inflammation. Whether or not that remains the case should become clear following his visit.
Aug 27 2020The Blue Jays transferred Thornton (elbow) to the 45-day injured list Thursday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Thornton is expected to avoid surgery after he exited his Aug. 23 start with right elbow inflammation, his move to the 45-day IL will nonetheless spell an early end to his season. Before being shut down, Thornton made three starts for the Blue Jays, giving up seven runs on 15 hits and three walks in 5.2 innings. The transaction clears a spot on the 40-man roster for Taijuan Walker, whom the Blue Jays acquired from the Mariners on Thursday to bolster their rotation depth.
Aug 24 2020The Blue Jays placed Thornton (elbow) on the 10-day injured list Monday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Toronto recalled reliever Travis Bergen from the taxi squad to take Thornton's spot on the 28-man active roster, but the team will first require a replacement for the right-hander in the rotation Friday against the Orioles. Anthony Kay covered three innings of long relief after Thornton exited Sunday's loss to the Rays with the injury, so Kay would represent a logical option to fill the opening in the Jays' pitching schedule. Thornton is first eligible to return from the IL on Sept. 3.
Aug 23 2020Thornton was removed early in his start Sunday against the Rays with right elbow inflammation. He worked around two hits and struck out two over a scoreless first inning before departing. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Keegan Matheson of MLB.com, manager Charlie Montoyo was hoping that Thornton would at least be able to cover two innings Sunday in his second start since returning from the injured list, but the right-hander was unable to even meet that low bar. The Blue Jays will presumably put him through further tests before deciding his next step, but Thornton could be headed back to the IL since it was elbow inflammation that had previously forced his shutdown earlier this month. Anthony Kay came on in long relief for Thornton and could be a candidate to fill the vacancy in the rotation if Thornton is forced to miss time.
Aug 22 2020Thornton will start Sunday against the Rays, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton started Game 2 of a doubleheader Thursday, but he was roughed up over two-thirds of an inning. As a result, he'll be able to start on short notice for the team's series finale in Tampa Bay. It's unclear whether he'll face any workload limitations Sunday, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him near his full pitch count if he's effective.
Aug 20 2020Thornton allowed six earned runs on five hits and one walk while striking out one across 0.2 innings Thursday in the second game of the Blue Jays' doubleheader against the Phillies. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton couldn't make it out of the first inning, as he allowed the first six batters he faced to reach base. It appeared that he settled in when he recorded two consecutive outs, but was finally yanked when he surrendered an RBI double to the eighth batter of the inning. This was Thornton's first outing since being activated from the injured list with an elbow injury ,and he'll try to bounce back in his next start, currently projected to come Wednesday against Boston.
Aug 19 2020Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said that Thornton (elbow) will be activated from the 10-day injured list Thursday to start the second game of the team's doubleheader with the Phillies, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton was placed on the IL earlier this month after experiencing right elbow inflammation, but he'll get the green light to rejoin the active roster after he came out of a live batting practice session Tuesday no worse for the wear. While he'll tentatively be serving as a sixth starter this week for the Blue Jays, Thornton should have a clear path to a spot in the team's regular five-man rotation beginning next week after Toronto placed Nate Pearson (elbow) on the 10-day IL on Wednesday.
Aug 18 2020Thornton (elbow) threw live batting practice Tuesday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has already served the required 10 days on the injured list with elbow inflammation, and it appears as though he may not miss much more time. Per Hazel Mae of Sportsnet, he could be activated ahead of Thursday's doubleheader against the Phillies.
Aug 14 2020Thornton (elbow) threw a bullpen session Friday without issues, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton hit the injured list with elbow inflammation in early August, but the fact that he's already throwing a bullpen session just over a week later is certainly a positive sign. It's not yet clear when he's expected to return.
Aug 12 2020Thornton (elbow) is expected to play catch from 120 feet Wednesday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Charlie Montoyo said Thornton is "progressing" and could be cleared for mound work in the near future if everything goes well during his long-toss session. The right-hander has been on the IL since Aug. 6 with elbow inflammation.
Aug 6 2020Thornton was placed on the 10-day injured list Thursday with elbow inflammation, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton apparently felt off during a bullpen session, resulting in his placement on the IL. The Blue Jays have yet to announce who will replace Thornton in the rotation, though there's a chance Chase Anderson (oblique) could return from the IL to start Saturday. Jacob Waguespack was added to the active roster in a corresponding move.
Jul 30 2020Thornton's scheduled start against the Phillies on Saturday has been postponed, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Phillies announced that a pair of staff members tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the week, prompting the team to shut down its stadium and postpone this weekend's series against the Blue Jays. It's unclear clear when Thornton will start next.
Jul 27 2020Thornton didn't factor into the decision in Monday's 4-1 win over the Nationals, giving up one run on eight hits and two walks over four innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander needed 74 pitches (48 strikes) to record 12 outs, as a veteran Nats lineup made Thornton work and hit him hard when he did come into the strike zone. Fortunately for him, his defense turned four double plays behind him, limiting the damage to his ERA. Thornton is coming off a promising rookie season in 2019, but he'll need to be more efficient if he's going to become a consistent fantasy asset.
Jul 26 2020Thornton will start Monday's game against the Nationals, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was able to secure a rotation spot during summer camp and will take the mound for the fourth game of the season. Thornton made his major-league debut in 2019 and had a 4.84 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 149:61 K:BB over 154.1 innings (32 appearances).
Jul 19 2020Thornton is likely to begin the season as the Blue Jays' No. 4 starter with Chase Anderson (oblique) sidelined, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was already the frontrunner for the fifth spot in the rotation, but he receives some additional security with Anderson starting the season on the injured list. Thornton made his big-league debut in 2019 and had a 4.84 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 149:61 K:BB over 154.1 innings. Ryan Borucki, Anthony Kay and Nate Pearson remain in competition for the No. 5 spot.
Jul 11 2020Thornton will likely begin the season as the Blue Jays' fifth starter, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton's hold on the number five spot is unlikely to be a firm one, as highly rated pitching prospect Nate Pearson could be ready to claim the job quite early in the year, since the Blue Jays only have to keep him in the minors for a week in order to gain an extra year of service time. Thornton's 4.84 ERA, 22.0 percent strikeout rate and 1.41 WHIP as a rookie last season weren't terrible but hardly make him an exciting fantasy option.
Mar 24 2020Thornton is still penciled into the No. 5 starter spot when the regular season begins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander hadn't been overly impressive when spring training was put on pause, posting a 4.22 ERA and 6:5 K:BB through 10.2 innings, but Thornton's main competition for the job, Shun Yamaguchi, had served up five homers in nine innings to all but take himself out of the running. Depending on when MLB is able to resume, Thornton's biggest threat to his rotation spot could end up coming from top prospect Nate Pearson if the Jays decide they need their best options available in the majors.
Feb 18 2020Manager Charlie Montoyo said Thornton will start the Blue Jays' Grapefruit League opener Saturday versus the Yankees, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton is only expected to cover an inning or two before turning the game over to the bullpen. As a rookie in 2019, Thornton supplied a 4.84 ERA and 8.7 K/9 across 154.1 innings while holding down a rotation spot all season. He won't be guaranteed a starting job to begin 2020, however, as Toronto beefed up its pitching staff this offseason with more seasoned rotation options in Hyun-Jin Ryu, Tanner Roark and Chase Anderson. Japanese newcomer Shun Yamaguchi is also vying for a back-end spot in the Jays' rotation.
Sep 28 2019Thornton (6-9) allowed only one hit over five scoreless innings in a win over the Rays on Saturday. He struck out eight and walked four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's been a rough season for Thornton overall, but he finished strong with a 2.19 ERA and 26:9 K:BB in September (24.2 innings). With the way he closed it out, and with a lack of established veterans in the Toronto rotation, Thornton would seem to stand a great chance of breaking camp next year with a starting role. He'll have to secure his spot in spring training.
Sep 23 2019Thornton didn't factor into the decision in Sunday's 8-3 loss to the Yankees after working five innings and giving up four runs on five hits while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Working as the Blue Jays' primary pitcher, Thornton entered the contest in the bottom of the second and was taken the hook for the loss with opener Wilmer Font put Toronto in a 4-0 hole after one inning. Thornton had previously shined in his previous two turns as a primary pitcher with a 11:2 K:BB and one run allowed in 10 innings, but the two-run homer he allowed to DJ LeMahieu prevented the right-hander from maintaining momentum. He'll look to end the season on the high note while likely making his final turn through the rotation next weekend versus Tampa Bay.
Sep 22 2019Thornton will serve as the Blue Jays' bulk reliever behind opener Wilmer Font in Sunday's game against the Yankees, Blue Jays radio play-by-play broadcaster Ben Wagner reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thornton has recently flipped between working as a traditional starter and primary pitcher. His work on Sunday will likely begin in the second or third inning, and he can be expected to work four to five innings. Thornton has thrown the ball fairly well of late, allowing just four earned runs across his last three appearances -- spanning 14.2 innings.
Sep 17 2019Thornton allowed one run on three hits with one walk and four strikeouts across five innings during a no-decision in relief against the Orioles on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old pitched well enough to win and ate a bulk of the innings for the Blue Jays after their opener pitched one frame, but the game was tied with Thornton left. However, the performance helped drop his WHIP and ERA, which is now below 5.00. Thornton owns a 1.23 ERA in his last three appearances (14.2 frames). Overall, he is 5-9 with a 4.93 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 138 strikeouts in 144.1 innings this season.
Aug 30 2019Thornton (4-9) took the loss after yielding four runs (three earned) on six hits while striking out six over five innings Friday against the Astros.
Aug 23 2019Thornton allowed four runs (three earned) on nine hits and a walk over four-plus innings Friday, striking out four and taking a no-decision in the 7-4 loss to the
Aug 17 2019Thornton allowed three runs on five hits and four walks while striking out three over six innings in a 4-3 loss to the Mariners on Saturday.
Aug 11 2019Thornton (4-8) was hit with the loss after yielding one run on three hits and one walk while striking out six over six innings Sunday against the Yankees.
Aug 6 2019Thornton surrendered six runs on eight hits and one walk over 3.2 innings during Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay. He had two strikeouts and did not factor in the decision.
Aug 1 2019Thornton (4-7) earned the win over Baltimore on Thursday, hurling six innings and allowing one run on five hits and no walks while striking out two.
Jul 31 2019Manager Charlie Montoyo said Thornton (elbow) would be activated from the 10-day injured list and start Thursday in Baltimore, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.
Jul 22 2019Thornton was placed<\/a> on the 10-day injured list with right elbow inflammation.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 20 2019Thornton allowed four runs on three hits with one walk and three strikeouts across three innings during a no-decision against the Tigers on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 15 2019Thornton (3-7) took the loss Monday as the Blue Jays were downed 10-8 by the Red Sox, coughing up five runs on five hits and three walks over 1.1 innings. He failed to strike out a batter.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 7 2019Thornton (3-6) secured the victory after allowing three hits and struck out five over six scoreless innings Sunday against the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 3 2019Thornton (2-6) allowed seven runs on 11 hits with one walk and a strikeout across 2.2 innings while taking a loss against the Red Sox on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 26 2019Thornton allowed five runs on seven hits with two walks with four strikeouts across 3.1 innings during a no-decision against the Yankees on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 21 2019Thornton allowed two runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out seven over 6.1 innings Friday in a no-decision against Boston.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 16 2019Thornton (2-5) yielded six hits and three walks across 6.2 scoreless innings Sunday, striking out seven and earning the win over the Astros.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 11 2019Thornton (1-5) took the loss Tuesday at Baltimore after giving up three runs on seven hits over five innings. He struck out four and walked three.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Thornton allowed four runs on five hits and three walks over five innings during Wednesday's 11-7 win over the Yankees. He struck out four and did not factor in the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Thornton allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks over 4.2 innings during Wednesday's loss to the Rays. He struck out five and did not factor in the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 24 2019Thornton gave up three runs on four hits and three walks while striking out 10 over six innings Friday in a no-decision against San Diego.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019Thornton gave up only one run on three hits in six innings versus the White Sox on Sunday but did not factor into the decision. He struck out four and walked one batter.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019Thornton gave up one run on three hits in six innings versus the White Sox on Sunday but did not factor into the decision. He struck out four and walked one batter.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 14 2019Thornton (1-4) picked up the win Tuesday, giving up two runs on three hits and five walks over 5.2 innings while striking out seven in a 7-3 victory over the Giants.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 8 2019Thornton (0-4) allowed five earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out one across two innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Twins.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.