Blue Jays reinstate Morales and Estrada from DL, Loup and Burns optioned

The Blue Jays are reinstating Franklin Morales after he used the maximum of 30 days on his minor league rehab assignment

Following a curious month of rehab work in the minor leagues, left-handed reliever Franklin Morales is back with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Originally placed on the disabled list with shoulder fatigue, Morales’ $2 million contract became guaranteed while he was still injured and it became unclear what the organization’s plan was for him moving forward.

With Aaron Loup going the other way back to the triple-A Buffalo Bisons, the Blue Jays continue their search for a second left-handed option to compliment Brett Cecil, who continues to struggle himself after a stint on the DL earlier in the year. Morales posted impressive left-on-left splits as a member of the Kansas City Royals last season.

This series of moves still leaves the Blue Jays with an eight-man bullpen. With Jose Bautista scheduled to return from the disabled list as early as Monday, the club will then be deciding between rostering Junior Lake or an eighth relief pitcher.

Marco Estrada is tonight’s scheduled started and was expected to be activated. Andy Burns will return to Buffalo, but should remain a valuable piece of versatile depth should he be needed.

Antolin made his major league debut this season, allowing three runs in two innings in his lone appearance. He’s been much stronger for Buffalo, however, pitching 38.0 innings with a 2.84 ERA and 42 strikeouts.