The Toronto Blue Jays are in the midst of a four-game series against their AL East foe New York Yankees. But now, they’ll have to compete without a key relief pitcher.
Toronto has placed left-handed pitcher Joe Mantiply on the 15-day injured list with left knee inflammation, the team announced. In turn, the team has recalled right-hander Chase Lee from Triple-A.
There hasn’t yet been a timeline for Mantiply to return to the bullpen. But the Blue Jays will be closely monitoring the left-hander over his time on the IL. Depending on how the relief pitcher’s knee injury heals, the franchise will then determine their next course of action.
Mantiply is in his first year the Blue Jays, appearing in 17 games thus far. The lefty has made a strong first impression, pitching to a 2.04 ERA and a 16/4 K/BB ratio. It has been a major comeback, after Mantiply posted a 15.83 ERA over 10 innings in his final year with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2024. Over his 273 total games in his nine major league seasons, the one-time All-Star has recorded a 4.35 ERA and a 210/65 K/BB ratio.
The Blue Jays’ bullpen at large has struggled a bit as of late, ranking 17th in the league with their 4.13 ERA. Their .249 batting average against ranks 23rd while their 22 home runs allowed are tied for 10th-most in the league. To Toronto’s credit, their 211 strikeouts are the most of any bullpen in the league.
Things will be more difficult with Mantiply on the shelf. The Blue Jays will hope Lee can be an ample replacement in the meantime and that the left-hander isn’t forced to be out long-term.
The Toronto Blue Jays are in the midst of a four-game series against their AL East foe New York Yankees. But now, they’ll have to compete without a key relief pitcher. Toronto has placed left-handed pitcher Joe Mantiply on the 15-day injured list with left knee inflammation, the team announced.