The Toronto Blue Jays’ pitching staff has been hit with a devastating double blow, as relievers Erik Swanson and Ryan Burr are likely sidelined for the start of the season due to injuries. Swanson is battling elbow discomfort, while Burr is dealing with right shoulder fatigue, leaving the bullpen critically short-handed just weeks before Opening Day.
The Jays now face a glaring disadvantage compared to MLB powerhouses like the Yankees, Padres, Braves, and Rays, who can lean on deep farm systems to call up promising young arms during injury crises. Toronto’s weaker prospect pipeline leaves them scrambling for external solutions. With few internal options, the team may be forced to dive into free agency or leverage their surplus of infielders—eight currently crowd the roster—to trade for bullpen reinforcements.
GM Ross Atkins could use this infielder logjam as a bargaining chip, as not all eight players will secure roster spots. Deals for proven relievers appear inevitable, especially with the grueling MLB season likely to test the bullpen’s durability further.
**Bottom line**: Toronto’s thin pitching depth has been exposed before the first pitch is even thrown. Aggressive moves are now mandatory to salvage their playoff hopes.
*Source: Blue Jays Nation*
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