Blue Jays roster carousel continues as Erik Kratz and Neil Wagner called up

Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Neil Wagner (45) throws a pitch during the sixth inning in a game against the Boston Red Sox at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

The Toronto Blue Jays carousel of roster moves continued today with the announcement that catcher Erik Kratz and RHP Neil Wagner have been called up while RHP Chad Jenkins was optioned yet again. The Blue Jays also announced through Twitter that catcher Dioner Navarro has been placed on the bereavement/family emergency list and is inactive.

Jenkins, 26, didn’t throw a pitch this assignment and hasn’t played in an actual game since May 10 for Buffalo. He’ll likely be put back in the Bisons bullpen and could get work tonight.

Wagner, 30, is making his second stint with the Jays and has yet to allow a run in five appearances at Triple-A. The workhorse reliever pitched well when he was with the big club as well holding opponents to a 3.12 ERA over nine appearances. He was briefly on the disabled list with a strained forearm, which led to him missing a week in early May but appears to be back and healthy now.

Kratz, 33, is batting .231/.231/.462 with the Blue Jays this season and .273/.324/.485 at Triple-A. He should start against left-handed pitching, which the Blue Jays won’t see for at least three games based on the projected schedule. However Navarro will need to miss at least three days so I wouldn’t be surprised to see Kratz get at least one start (and a few pinch hit opportunities) before he’s inevitably sent back down again.