Roster Move: Drew Hutchison Optioned, Andy Burns Recalled

Bit of a minor roster move this afternoon as Drew Hutchison has been sent back down to Buffalo, while utility man Andy Burns is on his way to Toronto. Hutchison fufilled his duty last night in a solid spot start, going six innings allowing just three earned runs while striking out seven. There is no need for the righty pitcher on the roster heading into the All-Star break though, and he will give way to the 25-year-old Andy Burns. The versatile Burns was last with the team in mid-June and has yet to start a game in his Major League career and is still seeking his first hit at the highest level as well.

In 70 games with Buffalo this year, Burns has a slash line of .238/.294/.364 along with five home runs which is one of the worst offensive outputs of his minor league career to date. Thankfully even without a big bat, Burns still provides massive flexibility with the glove. The 2011 draftee has played at second, third, left field, right field, and shortstop this season which really gives a snapshot of how valuable he can be to a team in need of some versatility.

The consensus sixth starter for the Blue Jays, Hutchison will return to Buffalo to wait until his name is called again in the coming months. In the minors this year he has made 15 starts to the tune of a 2.78 ERA and a K/9 rate of 10.0. It will be interesting to see if he can show some of his massive potential when he gets an inevitable extended stay with the big club before the season is through. Until then, he will bide his time in Buffalo looking to refine his stuff and focus on consistently throwing strikes.

Confirmation of the move below along with the lineup for tonight's game. Travis rides the bench and newly minted All-Star Michael Saunders hits cleanup:

#BlueJays recall Andy Burns, option Drew Hutchison pic.twitter.com/pHJxNg6gBf

— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) July 8, 2016