As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for a crucial matchup against the Miami Marlins, one of their most dependable arms has stepped into the spotlight—not with a blazing fastball, but with a heartfelt message. José Berríos, the 30-year-old right-hander who has been an anchor of the Blue Jays’ pitching staff this season, addressed fans ahead of today’s game, reassuring them that his best baseball is still to come.
“My Best is Yet to Come”
Speaking to reporters at Rogers Centre, Berríos took a moment to reflect on his journey and the expectations that come with being a top starter in a championship-contending team.
“To the Blue Jays fans, I just want to say thank you for always being behind me,” Berríos said. “You’ve seen me pitch through good days and tough ones, and I promise you—I haven’t shown you my best yet. I still have more to give, and I’m determined to do everything I can to help bring a championship to Toronto.”
The timing of Berríos’s words was significant. The Blue Jays enter today’s game against the Marlins sitting atop the **AL East standings**, with every contest crucial in the race for playoff positioning. With the postseason in sight, Berríos’s message served as both reassurance and motivation for a fan base hungry to see their team finally break through and capture a World Series for the first time since 1993.
A Season of Steadiness
Berríos has been a model of consistency in 2025. Through late August, he has posted a **3.41 ERA with 12 wins**, ranking among the American League’s most reliable starting pitchers. His ability to eat innings, keep the Blue Jays in games, and step up in big moments has made him invaluable, especially during stretches when the rotation battled injuries.
But for Berríos, the numbers only tell part of the story. He emphasized that he’s always striving for more, never satisfied with “good enough.”
“I know I’ve pitched well this year, but I still believe there’s another level I can reach,” he said. “My goal isn’t just to have good numbers—it’s to be at my very best when this team needs me most, especially in the playoffs.”
A Personal Journey
For fans, Berríos’s words resonate not only because of his performance but also because of his personal journey. The Puerto Rican-born pitcher has always worn his heart on his sleeve, blending professionalism with passion. When he was acquired by Toronto in 2021, many saw him as a cornerstone for the franchise’s pitching future.
Since then, he has weathered ups and downs, including a rocky 2022 season where he struggled to find his form. But rather than shy away from criticism, Berríos worked tirelessly to reinvent himself. His bounce-back in 2023 and his steady dominance in 2024 and 2025 have earned him respect not only in the clubhouse but throughout Major League Baseball.
Winning Over the Fans
Berríos made a point to directly thank Toronto fans for their support, acknowledging the unique connection between the city and its players.
“Toronto is a special place,” he said. “From day one, I’ve felt the energy and love from the fans. Whether I’ve been at my best or going through challenges, they’ve stood by me. That’s something I’ll never forget, and it drives me to keep pushing forward.”
It’s no secret that Blue Jays fans are among the most passionate in baseball. With playoff hopes soaring, Berríos’s reassurance feels like a rallying cry for the entire city.
Teammates Rally Behind Him
Inside the clubhouse, Berríos’s leadership extends far beyond the mound. Fellow starter Kevin Gausman praised him for setting an example of professionalism and preparation.
“José works harder than anyone I know,” Gausman said. “He’s always studying, always training, always finding ways to improve. When he says his best is yet to come, I believe him. And that’s a scary thought for hitters.”
Young pitcher Ricky Tiedemann, who has looked up to Berríos since joining the big leagues, also spoke about his influence.
“José is like a big brother to me,” Tiedemann said. “He’s always encouraging, always teaching. The way he carries himself—it’s what you want to emulate as a young pitcher.”
A Crucial Stretch Ahead
The Blue Jays’ matchup against the Marlins marks the beginning of a pivotal stretch of games that could define their postseason seeding. With Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. powering the offense and the rotation holding strong, Toronto looks poised to make a deep run.
But as Berríos himself acknowledged, the path will not be easy.
“This is the time of year where every pitch, every inning, every at-bat matters,” Berríos said. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to fight for it. I’m ready to give everything I have.”
A Promise to Deliver
Perhaps the most powerful part of Berríos’s message was his closing words, which felt less like a statement and more like a promise.
“Blue Jays fans, my best is yet to come—and I’ll prove it to you. I want to be remembered as someone who gave everything to this team and to this city. We’re chasing history, and I believe we can do it together.”
With that, Berríos jogged off toward the bullpen, ready to prepare for another start. His message left an impression not just on the reporters gathered, but on the thousands of fans who would soon fill Rogers Centre with their chants of support.
The Heart of a Contender
As the Blue Jays continue their march toward October, José Berríos’s heartfelt assurance is more than just words—it’s a reflection of his character, his determination, and his belief in the team’s destiny.
For a franchise eyeing its first World Series in more than three decades, having players like Berríos leading the charge both on and off the field may prove to be the difference.
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