Blue Jays recall reliever Tepera, designate infielder Paredes for assignment

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 30/05/2016 (3716 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TORONTO – A worn-out bullpen forced the Toronto Blue Jays to make a roster move.

Right-handed pitcher Ryan Tepera was recalled by Toronto from its triple-A affiliate on Monday afternoon, while infielder Jimmy Paredes was designated for assignment to make space.

“We’re strapped,” said Blue Jays manager John Gibbons in his office before Toronto hosted the New York Yankees. “Really strapped.”

The Blue Jays had to rest closer Roberto Osuna, relievers Gavin Floyd, Joe Biagini and Jesse Chavez. Drew Storen was available, even though he’d pitched Saturday and Sunday.

“We haven’t got many (pitchers), I know that,” said Gibbons. “The reason we are where we are today is that last road trip all the games were those tight games where you need guys, your better guys. It catches up to you sometimes.

“The game’s changed. Let’s face it, guys need more rest than they ever used to have. To protect them from injuries, effectiveness too.”

Tepera has an 11.57 earned-run average in 2 1/3 innings pitched for the Blue Jays this season. He had a 3.27 ERA with 22 strikeouts, two losses and a save over 33 innings in his first Major League Baseball season last year.

Despite Tepera’s struggles, his arm was needed for the beleaguered Blue Jays bullpen. He was active for Monday night’s game against the AL East rival Yankees.

“He hasn’t performed to the kind of stuff he has,” said Gibbons. “He’s still feeling his way around a little bit. He was really good early on last year but then hit bit of a lull.

“He’s been up and down a couple of times this year, but he’s got a better arm than most of the guys you can see in the league.”

Paredes has a .267 batting average in 15 at bats with a home run and two runs. He’s seen limited action after being claimed off waivers by the Blue Jays on May 16.

Second baseman Devon Travis was also given the day off, as he had played in five straight games since May 25 when Toronto called him up from triple-A Buffalo after he completed a rehab assignment. He had been recovering from surgery on his left shoulder from last season. Darwin Barney started at second in his stead.

___

Follow @jchidleyhill on Twitter