What to know
- Former Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heineman shared an emotional farewell on Instagram, using the platform to thank the Blue Jays organization, his teammates, and fans after being traded to the Los Angeles Angels.
- Heineman reflected on his journey where he was traded and returned to Toronto multiple times, saying he grew to love the city more with each return and ever started a family within it.
- Heineman highlighted career moments with the Blue Jays and said the friendships he formed over the past five years were unbreakable.
- The Blue Jays traded Heineman to the Los Angeles Angels for cash considerations. Many supporters expressed disappointment online, praising his character, leadership, and contributions to the clubhouse while wishing him success in his next chapter.
Just one day after Blue Jays player Tyler Heineman was traded, the catcher posted a heartfelt love letter toward Toronto for the past couple of seasons.
‘Every time I came back, I loved it more’: A heartwarming goodbye to Toronto and the Blue Jays
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Heineman said he felt “blessed,” by his experience.
“These past 5 years have been nothing short of incredible,” Heineman shared. “From being a Blue Jay, to getting traded to the Pirates, to getting claimed again by the Jays, to getting claimed by the Red Sox, to once again get claimed by the Jays all in the span of 3 years was CRAZY! But every time I came back, I loved it more and more.”
The images he wrote below showed memories throughout his time with the Jays in Toronto. Heineman will now be travelling to Los Angeles, where he will play for the Angels.
Heineman continued to share his love for the city he played for, saying it’s where he began his family.
“Growing from a family of 2 to a family of 4. I’m so grateful to my girls for their continued support during this crazy and unpredictable career. Especially my wife,” he said.
Heineman also added his time in Toronto was some of the most fun he had in his career.
“…That magical run last year and getting to be a part of an AL Pennant banner being hoisted back in Toronto for the first time since 1993 was electric…” he reminisced. “The bonds that I formed with my teammates over these last 5 years can never be broken. You are all my brothers and I love you guys more than you could ever know.”
Additionally, the catcher thanked the fans and the Blue Jays organization.
“To the Blue Jays organization, training staff, medical staff and front office, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your franchise for half a decade. It was an honor to wear #55,” he wrote. “To the fans, you are amazing… You are the best part about playing for Toronto.”
And while his time with the Jays has come to an end, Heineman shared that this next chapter is a special one for him.
“I’m excited to join the team I grew up rooting for as a child,” he shared. “The 2002 World Series game 7 was one of my fondest memories as a kid. To angels fans, I promise you I will do everything I can to let you experience that joy I had as an 11 year old.”
Trade announcement
The Blue Jays made the announcement through an X post, sharing with fans that they had traded Heineman to the Angels for an undisclosed amount of money.
The trade comes following some struggle this season. Through 33 games, Heineman only achieved a .154 batting average as well as an average of .410 for on-base plus slugging (OBS), showing his offensive standing was also lower than most.
Prior to this season, Heineman saw a successful 2025 season, with three home runs, a .289 batting average, and a .777 OPS across 64 games, ultimately pushing the Jays towards American League East Division and American League Championship wins.
‘Sad to see him go’: Online reaction
Following the announcement, most Blue Jays fans were not happy.
“Another stupid trade. Dont need cash, need players who can f**king hit for god sakes,” one X user wrote.
Another agreed, saying Heineman was loved.
“Hate it. Don’t agree with it at all. Love Heineman. I’m so sad. 😞”
Some fans shared what kind of character Heineman had, saying his kindness would be missed.
“Awww we will miss Tyler 😭 The clubhouse magician who selflessly came in to pitch when everything was a disaster 😔,” one X user said.
“I’m sad to see him go. Hell of a team player and fun guy. Good luck, Heineman! Thanks for some awesome times as a Jay!” another fan agreed.
Many fans noted that he might one day return to the Jays, pointing out his past returns.
Due to the mid-season trade, Heineman will have to hit the ground running with the Angels, facing an immediate relocation, and a new playbook to learn.
