It was a rough day for Toronto Blue Jays starter Yariel Rodriguez.
Rodriguez started the first game of the Blue Jays’ doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles on Monday but failed to make it out of the first inning.
The Cuban right-hander was pulled after getting just two outs, issuing four walks and hitting a batter before being replaced by Brandon Eisert with the bases loaded.
After the game, the Blue Jays announced that Rodriguez had been optioned to triple-A Buffalo to make room for Game 2’s starter Bowden Francis.
The Blue Jays also optioned right-hander Yerry Rodriguez to Buffalo and called up right-hander Jose Cuas who will be active for Monday night’s game.
Yariel Rodriguez was making his 11th start of the season but didn’t have the command to compete with the high-powered Baltimore lineup.
He had been excellent his last four times out, posting a 2.01 ERA with 25 strikeouts and eight walks while racking up 22.1 innings over those four starts. But Monday, he set a new career high in walks allowed and tied for the most earned runs he has allowed in a single outing — all before getting three outs.
Francis will make his fourth start of the season on Monday night. Over 38.2 innings with the Blue Jays this season, Francis has a 5.82 ERA.
It’s a big spot for the 28-year-old Francis, as with the Blue Jays in sell mode, he has a chance to prove himself as a capable starter as Toronto looks ahead to the 2025 season.
Catcher Brian Serven is also in Monday night’s starting lineup, making his first start since being called up from triple-A Buffalo after long-time catcher Danny Jansen was traded to the Boston Red Sox.
Monday night’s start time is currently to be determined because of inclement weather in the area. You can watch the game live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.