Blue Jays: Roberto Osuna given his walking papers in Houston

The Toronto Blue Jays former closer Roberto Osuna was given his outright release from the Houston Astros yesterday.

The Houston Astros opted not to keep pitcher Roberto Osuna in the fold for his final season of arbitration eligibility. The former Blue Jays pitcher missed most of this past season with an elbow injury. The 25-year old made just four appearances before hitting the injured reserve.

It initially appeared that Osuna was in line for Tommy John surgery, however, a second opinion has the native of Mexico rehabbing the injured elbow. There is no telling if he will be ready for the 2021 campaign and it is likely the Astros were not willing to chance that at his current price tag.

The closer earned $10 million this past season and would likely be in that same bracket again next season. The Astros brain trust decided now was the time to cut ties with the troubled hurler rather than risk further injury.

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Osuna was shipped out of Toronto following domestic assault charges in exchange for Ken Giles. Ironically, Giles just underwent Tommy John surgery after dealing with a nagging elbow injury for an extended period of time.

The much-publicized brush with the law resulted in a peace bond for Osuna, however, his reputation has never recovered north of the border. There is zero chance the Blue Jays will ever take another shot on the talented closer.

In six MLB seasons, Osuna sports a 2.74 earned run average with 155 saves and a 9.9 SO/9 rate in 314 appearances. Osuna has accumulated an 8.8 career WAR while achieving 35+ saves on three occasions throughout his career including twice with Toronto.

It will be interesting to see just how many suitors Osuna will have on the open market as he will surely clear waivers. He may be tricky a sign considering his current injury status coupled with his previous indiscretions.

Unfortunately, the 25-year old brings some baggage with him that may not be appealing to many organizations around the league.