The Toronto Blue Jays have made roster adjustments, adding right-handed pitcher Austin Voth from Triple-A Buffalo. To accommodate this move, the team optioned Tanner Andrews to the same minor league team and shifted catcher Alejandro Kirk to the 60-day Injured List (IL).
Details on Roster Changes
Alejandro Kirk has been absent since early April after undergoing thumb surgery. The transfer to the 60-day IL is mostly procedural since Kirk has already spent nearly 60 days recovering. This move does not reset his IL clock, allowing him to be eligible for activation once he reaches the required 60 days.
Austin Voth’s Performance and Potential Role
Austin Voth, at 33 years old, signed a minor league deal with the Blue Jays in March. He made one appearance this season, allowing a single run in 2.2 innings. Voth was briefly a free agent but re-signed with the team on a new minor league contract.
His performance at Buffalo has been commendable. This season, Voth has started eight games, maintaining a solid 2.90 earned run average (ERA). His statistics include:
- Strikeout Rate: 17.4%
- Walk Rate: 6.8%
- Ground-Ball Rate: 39.4%
- Innings Pitched: 31
Voth’s recent outings have shown that he can pitch multiple innings, making him a versatile option for the bullpen or as a starter.
Injuries Impacting the Team
The Blue Jays are currently grappling with several injuries within their rotation. Recent setbacks include:
- José Berríos: Recovering from Tommy John surgery.
- Dylan Cease: On the 15-day IL due to a hamstring strain.
- Max Scherzer: Missing time with tendinitis in his right forearm and ankle inflammation.
- Shane Bieber: Has yet to pitch this season due to elbow issues.
- Cody Ponce: Torn ACL, unlikely to return this season.
- Bowden Francis: Underwent Tommy John surgery in February.
These injuries create opportunities for Voth to remain on the active roster, as he cannot be optioned back to the minors. Should the team require a roster change, releasing him through designated for assignment (DFA) would be the necessary path.
Kirk’s Recovery Timeline
Kirk continues his recovery from surgery to stabilize his broken left thumb. He had a screw placed in the thumb during the procedure on April 6. Pundits expect he may not start his minor league rehab assignment until next week. As per current timelines, he is eligible for reinstatement on June 3.
These moves highlight the Blue Jays’ efforts to navigate a challenging injury landscape while adding depth to their pitching staff.
