Blue Jays Shake Things Up!

In a surprising turn of events, the Toronto Blue Jays have officially selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Tommy Nance, signaling a strategic shift as they tackle the remainder of the season. This move comes with the unfortunate news that fellow pitcher Ryan Burr has been placed on the 60-day injured list due to a right rotator cuff strain, opening up spots on both the active and 40-man roster for Nance.

Nance’s Journey So Far

At 34 years old, Nance had a solid stint with the Blue Jays last year, showcasing his potential even as the team struggled during a lost campaign. Added to the roster in August, he pitched 22 innings with a 4.09 ERA, showing promise with a 52.4% ground ball rate despite a strikeout rate that hovered just below average.

From Triple-A to the Big Leagues

After remaining on the 40-man roster through the offseason but not making the opening day lineup, Nance found himself designated for assignment and subsequently sent to Triple-A Buffalo. Since then, he’s pitched 31.1 innings for the Bisons with a 4.60 ERA, a figure that belies his capabilities. His impressive 31.3% strikeout rate and low 5.2% walk rate indicate that he’s been performing better than those numbers suggest, hindered by a high .363 batting average on balls in play.

What’s Next for Nance?

As the Blue Jays look to optimize their bullpen, Nance will be given the chance to prove himself at the major league level. With no options left, he’s here to stay unless he falters. If he can secure a roster spot until season's end, his future with the team will look bright. Currently leading the American League East, the Jays might also look to bring in more bullpen support ahead of the trade deadline, making Nance's performance critical.

Burr’s Injury Woes Continue

On the flip side, Burr's recent setback raises concerns. After starting the year on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation, he made a brief return only to exit his latest outing with another injury. His immediate placement on the 60-day IL suggests a long road to recovery for the reliever.

The Future Outlook

Just like Nance, Burr had a decent run last year, with a 4.13 ERA over 32.2 innings. Despite showing elite indicators with a 33.6% strikeout rate, he has been plagued by injuries in 2025. For the Jays, it’s crucial that they keep an eye on both pitchers as they solidify their roster and prepare for a competitive season.