Report: Reliever Jay Jackson Rejoins Blue Jays
The Blue Jays liked what they saw.
Reliever Jay Jackson is back with Toronto, signing a split deal, Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling reports. The 35-year-old reliever was granted free agency after he was cut from the Blue Jays MLB roster earlier this week.
Jackson should report to Triple-A Buffalo to start the year and will help comprise a strong group of MLB-ready bullpen depth. Signing a split deal, Jackson will receive different levels of pay depending on if he's in the minors or MLB.
As a non-roster invitee at Toronto's spring camp this year, Jackson impressed in his 9.1 innings of work. The righty struck out 13 batters, walked just two, and didn't allow an earned run. However, with established veterans taking nearly every spot in the Jays' Opening Day pitching staff, Jackson did not make the team out of spring. The Blue Jays granted his release earlier this week, and now he's back in the organization after surveying free agency.
Jackson has pitched in 57.2 innings at the top level, posting a 4.21 ERA across four seasons dating back to 2015. He most recently pitched for the Giants and Braves, after a lengthy stint in the Japan Central League.
With Zach Pop taking Toronto's final bullpen spot and Mitch White set to start the season on the IL, Jackson, Trent Thornton, and Nate Pearson represent Toronto's first line of reliever depth to start the 2023 campaign.
H/T Arden Zwelling
