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Blue Jays designate Ryan Borucki for assignment amid struggles

Ryan Borucki has struggled out of the Blue Jays' bullpen this season. (Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Ryan Borucki has struggled out of the Blue Jays' bullpen this season. (Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

The Toronto Blue Jays made a somewhat surprising decision on Tuesday, electing to designate struggling reliever Ryan Borucki for assignment.

Borucki hasn't been able to find his form in 2022, posting a 9.95 ERA over 11 appearances. He was given an opportunity to pitch in higher-leverage situations in recent weeks due to an injury to fellow left-hander Tim Mayza, but could not take advantage.

Borucki has shown promise as an effective bullpen option in the past, posting a 2.70 ERA in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season after being converted from a starting role.

The 28-year-old was drafted out of high school by the Blue Jays in the 15th round in 2012 and has been in the organization ever since. He broke into the majors as a starter in 2018, making 17 appearances with a very respectable 3.87 ERA.

As a hard-throwing left-hander with a slider that has proven to be effective in the past, it would be surprising if another team didn't take a flyer on Borucki and claim him off waivers. Perhaps a change of scenery could get him back on track.

Right-handed pitcher Trent Thornton was recalled from the triple-A Buffalo Bisons to replace Borucki on the active roster. Toronto now has an open spot on its 40-man roster and could fill it by promoting someone from within the organization, or by finding help externally.

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