Blue Jays Lose Fleming and Voth to Free Agency After Injuries Ravage Rotation

The Toronto Blue Jays have lost two key relievers to free agency as left-hander Josh Fleming and right-hander Austin Voth elected free agency after clearing waivers. Both were designated for assignment this week as the club continues to navigate a shaky pitching staff. The moves come amid a string of injuries that have forced Toronto to cycle through its minor league depth in a short span.

The Blue Jays signed both pitchers to minor league deals earlier this month. Fleming was called up on Monday after Max Scherzer exited a start due to right forearm tendinitis. The lefty pitched 3 1/3 innings in relief, surrendering three runs on three hits and two walks. Voth was also promoted days earlier when Lazaro Estrada was optioned back to the minors after a short recall. Voth logged 2 2/3 innings in relief of a flu-ridden Eric Lauer on Sunday.

Cody Ponce’s season has already ended due to a knee injury requiring surgery. Estrada was recalled when Ponce was placed on the injured list but was quickly sent back down after one appearance. The Blue Jays have also dealt with Scherzer’s injury concerns and the rehab timelines of José Berríos and Shane Bieber.

Fleming and Voth both qualify for free agency due to their service time and prior outright assignments. Fleming, with 257 2/3 big league innings under his belt, has a 4.86 ERA, 14.4% strikeout rate, and 58.5% ground ball rate. Voth, who has 363 innings of experience over 208 games, has a 4.69 ERA, 22% strikeout rate, and 8.3% walk rate.

Toronto could still bring one or both back on new deals, as is common with waived players. However, they are also free to pursue opportunities with other teams. The Blue Jays remain in a precarious position with their rotation, as Scherzer’s status is uncertain and Berríos and Bieber are still on the injured list.

Patrick Corbin will start tomorrow’s game for the Jays, and Trey Yesavage remains in Toronto’s system. Estrada is now on the minor league IL, which could open a path back for either Fleming or Voth if the club chooses to recall them.

The Blue Jays face a pivotal week as they monitor the health of their starters and evaluate their options in the trade market. With injuries piling up, Toronto must decide whether to pursue reinforcements or rely on its current crop of returning arms.