Toronto Blue Jays’ closer Jordan Romano and reliever Erik Swanson will begin the season on the injured list, and they could be joined by starting pitcher Alex Manoah.
Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins mentioned on Wednesday that he is optimistic about Romano and Swanson returning within a month. Romano is dealing with a right elbow injury, while Swanson has right forearm inflammation.
“They both seem to be progressing well,” Atkins stated. “They’re recovering nicely and feel strong. Unless there are any setbacks, I believe their absence could be brief.”
Chad Green and Yimi Garcia will step in to cover for Romano. Manoah, who has been slowed down by a right shoulder injury, pitched 34 pitches across two innings on Wednesday in a minor league camp game.
“He’s just a bit behind,” Atkins explained. “But judging from his performance today, he looked exceptional. His pitches had a lot of power, and his demeanor was impressive.”
Manoah is set to increase his workload to four to five innings over his next couple of minor league appearances.
Slugger Joey Votto, who recently signed a minor league contract, is expected to resume baseball activities soon as he recovers from a right ankle injury. He will begin playing games in extended spring training before likely joining Triple-A Buffalo. Cuban pitcher Yariel Rodríguez, who signed a five-year contract worth $32 million, has been sent to Buffalo.
“Our priority is to give him every opportunity to be a starter in the future, both in the short and long term, while also considering him as a relief option for us shortly,” Atkins added.
Manager John Schnieder confirmed that pitchers Nate Pearson and Wes Parsons have both secured spots on the opening day roster.
