RHP Edgar Gonzalez Claimed By Toronto Blue Jays

September 3, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Edgar Gonzalez (31) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fifth inning at PNC Park. The Houston Astros won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY SportsThe Toronto Blue Jays have claimed right-hander Edgar Gonzalez off of waivers on Sunday, as confirmed by Shi Davidi of Sportnet. The 30-year-old veteran had been waived earlier in the week by the Houston Astros.

Gonzalez, a veteran of 9 seasons, has pitched for Arizona, Houston, Oakland, and Colorado during his career. He owns a lifetime ERA of 5.84 over 113 appearances (47 starts), with a 5.8 K/9 ratio

In order to make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster, the Blue Jays transferred right-hander Dustin McGowan to the 60-day disabled list. McGowan is currently continuing his rehab assignment, and his movement to the 60-day disabled list is a sign that he’ll need more than the standard 15-days. The move also gives Toronto more time to decide how to proceed with McGowan in the near future.

According to Davidi, the Blue Jays also plan to add Gonzalez to the 25-man roster, which would mean that a corresponding move would then need to be made. Already carrying an 8-man bullpen, Toronto would likely make Dave Bush the odd man out. Bush, who was added on Saturday when the Blue Jays designated Jeremy Jeffress for assignment, has appeared in one game this season, surrending 5 earned runs in a three-inning appearance against Boston on Sunday.

What role Gonzalez could possibly serve the Blue Jays would remains to be seen, but he could serve as a short-term innings eater until Brett Lawrie returns and that extra bullpen spot goes away.