Blue Jays Swap One Recent Addition for Another in Pair of Roster Moves

Ross Stripling to IL with back issue, Jay Jackson recalled

The Toronto Blue Jays made a pair of roster moves on Saturday, optioning right-hander Bowden Francis to triple-A Buffalo and recalling right-hander Jay Jackson from the same club. The moves come one day after the Blue Jays designated right-hander Ross Stripling for assignment to make room for newly acquired reliever Anthony Banda.

Stripling is dealing with a lower back issue and was placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to Friday. The 33-year-old has struggled this season, posting a 4.82 ERA in 10 starts.

Jackson, 27, has made one appearance for the Blue Jays this season, allowing one run on two hits in one inning of work. The former first-round pick has a 3.00 ERA in 10 appearances at Buffalo this season.

Francis, 25, made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays earlier this season, starting one game and allowing two runs on four hits in four innings of work. The right-hander has a 4.50 ERA in 10 starts at Buffalo this season.

Stripling's struggles

Stripling has been a disappointment for the Blue Jays this season, failing to live up to expectations after signing a two-year, $24 million contract in the offseason.

The right-hander has struggled with his command, walking 28 batters in 56 innings of work. He has also been hit hard, allowing 11 home runs.

Stripling's struggles have contributed to the Blue Jays' disappointing start to the season. The team is currently 27-33 and in last place in the AL East.

Jackson's potential

Jackson is a former first-round pick who has shown promise in the minors.

The right-hander has a good fastball and a developing changeup. He also has good command of his pitches.

Jackson could be a valuable addition to the Blue Jays' bullpen, providing them with a much-needed right-handed arm.

Francis' future

Francis is a young pitcher with a lot of potential.

The right-hander has a good fastball and a developing changeup. He also has good command of his pitches.

Francis could be a valuable starter for the Blue Jays in the future, but he needs to continue to develop his pitches and improve his command.