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The Toronto Blue Jays claimed veteran relief pitcher Paul Sewald off waivers from the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to MLB.com, moving to stabilize a weary bullpen as they gain momentum in the wild-card race, according to MLB Trade Rumors and BVM Sports.
Toronto’s front office targeted the right-hander to reinforce a relief corps hit hard by injuries and heavy workloads over the course of the Major League Baseball season, as reported by MLB.com. Sewald brings postseason experience and a closing pedigree to a clubhouse currently sitting just ahead of the Baltimore Orioles in the American League wild-card race, according to BVM Sports.
Bullpen Reinforcements Arrive in Toronto
Adding Sewald provides immediate depth to a Blue Jays bullpen that has endured severe strains in recent months, according to MLB Trade Rumors. The veteran reliever experienced a challenging run with Arizona this season, but his track record of high-leverage success prompted Toronto to make the waiver claim following his designation for assignment by the Diamondbacks, according to ESPN.
Blue Jays management hopes the change of scenery helps the right-hander recapture the form that made him a bullpen anchor for Arizona’s run to the 2023 World Series. According to BVM Sports, the team’s recent surge includes victories in 10 of their last 16 games, and integrating a proven arm like Sewald offers manager more flexibility in late-inning situations as the schedule tightens.
Wild-Card Momentum and Upcoming Schedule
The Blue Jays enter a critical stretch of late-summer fixtures carrying their longest sustained momentum of the second half, according to BVM Sports.
Offensive improvements have carried Toronto through recent weeks, but sustaining a playoff push requires reliable multi-inning bridge relievers and secure closing options, according to BVM Sports. With Sewald now reporting to the active roster, the club aims to protect late-game leads and convert its recent surge into a legitimate postseason berth.
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