
Blue Jays starter Francis goes on injured list, reliever Swanson designated for assignment
Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Bowden Francis (44) stands on the mound after issuing a walk to Minnesota Twins' Willi Castro (50) during the second inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
TORONTO — Toronto Blue Jays starter Bowden Francis has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right shoulder impingement.
The move, announced by the team a few hours before Tuesday's series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks, was retroactive to last Sunday.
After a strong second half last year, Francis has struggled this season. He posted a 2-8 record and 6.05 earned-run average over 14 starts.
The Blue Jays also designated reliever Erik Swanson for assignment, selected left-hander Justin Bruihl to the major-league roster and recalled right-hander Paxton Schultz from Triple-A Buffalo.
Swanson missed the first two months of the season due to a nerve issue and has been ineffective since his return.
The right-hander was 1-0 with a 15.19 ERA over six appearances.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 17, 2025.
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