Blue Jays recall Ryan Tepera, replaces Danny Barnes

The Toronto Blue Jays have recalled right-handed reliever Ryan Tepera from the triple-A Buffalo Bisons ahead of Wednesday night’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Tepera will take the spot of Danny Barnes, who was optioned back to Buffalo on Tuesday night as the Blue Jays were in need of a fresh arm.

This has been a common trip for Tepera, whose available roster options have made him a flexible asset for the Blue Jays front office. Despite the yo-yoing, however, Tepera has pitched just 4.2 MLB innings over five appearances.

His time with the Bisons has been much more successful. In 33 games that span 40.2 innings, Tepera has been Buffalo’s top option at closer with 17 saves. He’s earned a 2.66 ERA with a 1.107 WHIP and 9.1 strikeouts per nine innings.

Tepera could be called upon for multiple innings if a low-leverage opportunity presents itself, especially following last night’s game in which Scott Feldman threw 39 pitches over two innings of work.

Barring an unexpected surge from Tepera, it’s likely he returns to the minor leagues again in the near future as Toronto continues their search to nail down the 7th spot in the bullpen.

Mike Bolsinger remains an option for a long-man alongside Feldman while left-handers Aaron Loup and Chad Girodo remain candidates to pair alongside Brett Cecil. Barnes will also be a candidate to return after impressing manager John Gibbons in his major league debut.