Blue Jays DFA Chad Girodo and A.J. Jimenez

The Toronto Blue Jays have officially announced the signing of relievers J.P. Howell and Joe Smith, both to major league deals and for 3 million. As well by signing them they had to make room on the 40 man roster and the players were a bit of a surprise. As Chad Girodo and A.J. Jimenez were those players.

As Chad Girodo was figured to be in contention to become the Jays 2nd lefty out of the bullpen but it now appears Aaron Loup will have that job locked down. As last season in Toronto, Girodo appeared in 14 games with a 4.35 ERA, which might look to good but Girodo could have had a serious shot at winning a bullpen job with a good spring but now could be lost to waivers.

As for A.J. Jimenez he was deemed a top prospect and ‘the Jays catcher of the future’ once was projected to be the backup catcher, and now DFA’d. As Jimenez never truly progressed through the minor leagues as he has been derailed by injuries. As well Jimenez have seen the Jays draft Max Pentecost and acquire Reese McGuire, possibly spelling the end of his Jays career, but perhaps a change of scenery is best for Jimenez.