Jason Grilli DFA'd amid flurry of moves

The Blue Jays officially designated Jason Grilli for assignment on Tuesday afternoon, amid a flurry of moves announced by the team. Dwight Smith Jr., in his second stint at the major league level, has been optioned to make room for Chris Smith, a reliever, and Ezequiel Carrera, who has been activated off of the disabled list, where he was sidelined with a fractured foot.

Grilli, who posted a 6.97 ERA through 20.2 innings this season, is currently 40-years-old. Last season, after his trade to the Blue Jays, Grilli pitched well, posting a 3.64 ERA, although his FIP of 4.29 indicated he faced some good luck. This season, he's allowed nine home runs and walked nine while striking out 23. His FIP of 7.89 is even higher than his already-elevated 6.97 ERA.

Dwight Smith Jr. made his major-league debut earlier this season on May 18th. Since then, the young outfielder, over two stints, has played in 12 games with a .370 batting average and .414 OBP. Although it has yet to be announced, Smith will almost certainly report to triple-A Buffalo to continue his development.

Ezequiel Carrera was initially placed on the disabled list on June 14th with a fractured foot. The injury, apparently stemming from a foul ball hit off of his foot, sidelined Carrera until Monday, when he began his rehab assignment. In the outing with the Bisons, Carrera collected one hit and two walks in his two at-bats.

Chris Smith was expected to be recalled in advance of Tuesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles. Making his second appearance on a major-league roster, Smith posted a 3.93 ERA in 14 games for the Bisons this season. He had a WHIP of 1.091 and is 28-years-old.

The decision to option Dwight Smith Jr. and not Ian Parmely is certainly a questionable move. Smith, as previously mentioned, has been dominant and effective, albeit in a small sample size.