Statements
The Toronto Blue Jays have placed right-hander Yimi Garcia on the 15-day injured list due to a sore elbow. This move comes after Garcia had to exit a save opportunity against the Cleveland Guardians with two outs in the ninth inning.
The Blue Jays' Solution
The Blue Jays have selected the contract of left-hander Brandon Eisert from Triple-A Buffalo to fill the void left by Garcia. Garcia has been Toronto’s most reliable reliever this season. The 10-year veteran has a 3-0 record with a 2.57 ERA across 27 games. He has struck out 37 batters while only giving up seven walks over 28 innings.
An MRI revealed no structural damage in Garcia's elbow. However, Garcia’s absence will still be felt in the bullpen. Right-hander Chad Green will handle most save opportunities. Garcia’s stint on the injured list exacerbates the issues for a Blue Jays bullpen that has been struggling. Toronto's relievers collectively had a 4.69 ERA — the fourth-worst mark in the league.
Additional Bullpen Challenges
Garcia's placement on the IL leaves the team without three key relievers. Jordan Romano has been on the IL since May 30 due to a sore shoulder. This marks Romano's second stint on the IL this season. His absence has dealt a significant blow to the Blue Jays' bullpen depth.
Furthermore, Erik Swanson was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on May 28 after struggling with a 9.22 ERA in 17 appearances. Since joining the Buffalo Bisons, Swanson has allowed six runs in 5 1/3 innings. His struggles have continued in Triple-A, prompting the Blue Jays to turn to Brandon Eisert due to significant absences in their bullpen.
Eisert’s promotion indicates the organization's confidence in his ability to contribute at the major league level.
Impact on Offense
In addition to their bullpen woes, the Blue Jays are keeping a close eye on first baseman Joey Votto, who began a rehab assignment in the Florida Complex League. Votto suffered an ankle injury in spring training and has not yet played for the Blue Jays this season. His eventual return could provide a much-needed boost to the team's lineup.
Strategies Moving Forward
The Blue Jays’ bullpen management will be crucial in the coming weeks. The team will rely on new additions and remaining bullpen arms to stabilize their pitching resources. Much will depend on how quickly sidelined players can recover and return to aid the Blue Jays.
Quotes
"An MRI revealed no structural damage in Garcia's elbow," Blue Jays manager John Schneider said.
"Right-hander Chad Green will handle most save opportunities," he added.
As the Blue Jays navigate these challenges, their ability to adapt and the performance of both seasoned and newly promoted players will be put to the test. The team hopes that the return of key players like Garcia and Romano, along with the potential boost from Votto, will help them overcome their current struggles and improve their standing in the league.