Report: Blue Jays Release Melvin Upton Jr.

Melvin Upton Jr’s brief time in Toronto has come to an end. The Toronto Blue Jays have released the veteran outfielder.

After reportedly attempting to trade Melvin Upton Jr., the Toronto Blue Jays found themselves with no suitors to take him as they finalize their roster for Opening Day. Details of the roster moves were tweeted by Sportsnet’s Arden Zwelling.

Upton Jr. will clear waivers on Wednesday if he hasn’t been claimed by another team.

Just days before the trade deadline last season, the Blue Jays acquired Upton Jr. from the San Diego Padres on July 26. He played 57 games with the team as well as making a few appearances in postseason.

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Many believed that once the Blue Jays acquired Upton Jr., he was likely the player to replace then pending free agent Jose Bautista. Now, that’s definitely not a factor anymore.

Last season, Upton Jr. hammered 20 home runs and 61 RBI’s with a .238 average. However, he struck out 49 times in 148 at-bats. His numbers were horrific this spring too. The 32-year old posted a .194 average in 36 at-bats with three home runs and seven RBI’s.

The Blue Jays are the fourth team that Upton Jr. has played for. He started out with the Tampa Bay Rays, then signed with the Atlanta Braves as a free agent (where he also played with his brother Justin Upton), then played with the Padres before coming to Toronto.

The vacant roster spot left on the Blue Jays means that relief pitcher Ryan Tepera and utility man Ryan Goins will open the season with the club.

Hazel Mae tweeted out a list of players on the roster. Newcomer Dominic Leone will be called up to the team as closer Roberto Osuna has been placed on the 10-day disabled list due to cervical spasms.

The roster is officially set for the Blue Jays who will begin their season on the road against the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards tomorrow at 3:05 PM E.T.

Unfortunately for Upton Jr., he’s been an inconsistent performer for the Blue Jays. A highly gifted athlete, just like his brother, he will hopefully get a chance to play for another team this season. The Blue Jays only have to pay $1 million of Upton’s salary this year.

Next: Blue Jays trade history Part 5: David Cone