Blue Jays: Ryan Tepera and John Axord dealing with elbow discomfort

According to Toronto Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo, relievers Ryan Tepera and John Axford are both being evaluated for elbow discomfort, injuries which both could have huge ramifications on the complexion of the bullpen.

Both hurlers were major factors in the Blue Jays bullpen last season while Ryan Tepera was going to be leaned on heavily this season to bridge the gap to closer Ken Giles. Tepera has scuffled all spring to the tune of a 7.71 earned run average while surrendering six runs in seven innings on the bump.

John Axford is in camp on a minor league pact but has looked impressive in five spring appearances. Axford has been only touched up for one run over five innings of Grapefruit League action. The 35-year old veteran made it abundantly clear this offseason that Toronto was the only place he wished to pitch in 2019.

Along with Tepera and Axford, Montoyo also reported that rookie Jonathan Davis would be sidelined for 2-4 weeks with a sprained right ankle. Davis was not in the conversation to make the club and would have in all likelihood began the season in Triple-A Buffalo.

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As it stands right now Ken Giles, Bud Norris, Joe Biagini, and Tim Mayza would more than likely have joined Tepera and Axford in the pen. These injuries could change the overall complexion of the bullpen if Tepera or Axford are unable to answer the bell on Opening Day.

The likes of Sam Gaviglio, David Paulino or Trent Thornton could all look to benefit from the injuries. There is also still the unanswered question surrounding Rule 5 teenager Elvis Luciano who has looked overmatched at times this spring. Luciano sports a 10.80 earned run average with eight strikeouts in 6.2 innings of work.

According to the skipper, we should have prognosis updates on both hurlers no later than tomorrow. Stay tuned.