TORONTO - The Toronto Blue Jays have designated veteran reliever Jason Grilli for assignment.
The 40-year-old right-hander has struggled this season, posting a 2-4 record and a 6.97 earned-run average over 20 2/3 innings.
“It's only been about a year but there were so many incredible memories made in and with #Toronto,” Grilli said in a Twitter post, capped with a blue heart emoji.
The Jays acquired Grilli from the Atlanta Braves last season, and he enjoyed success as the set-up man to closer Roberto Osuna as Toronto advanced to the playoffs for the second straight year.
“Grilli has done a lot for us,” said Blue Jays manager John Gibbons. “He's one of the good guys and that always makes it doubly tough. But he plans to keep going. Maybe somebody will grab him. We'll see what happens.
“But those kind are always tough. Extra tough.”
Also Monday, the Jays optioned outfielder Dwight Smith Jr., recalled right-handed pitcher Chris Smith and reinstated outfielder Ezequiel Carrera from the disabled list.
