The Blue Jays are looking for another lefthander for their bullpen, as Marcus Stroman's season-ending injury has created a ripple effect throughout the pitching staff.
Stroman's vacancy in the starting rotation will be filled by Aaron Sanchez, who was expected to share closing duties with Brett Cecil.
That means Cecil can't help with relief in the middle innings, as was the original plan when he was slated as a co-closer. Manager John Gibbons told MLB.com's Gregor Chisholm that it would be "ideal" to find another southpaw to help with the mid-innings.
Jeff Francis , signed by the team during the offseason, is a candidate. The 33-year-old posted a 5.85 ERA over 20 innings with three teams last year.
"He's a different type pitcher now, but I could see a place on this team for him. ... He's going to come out and throw strikes, and that's so valuable coming out of the bullpen," Gibbons said. "You don't want to bring in guys trying to find the strike zone. He can be tough on lefties, but he can also get righties out. I think, too, coming out of the bullpen in that role, that can extend his career another four or five years. He's a great competitor."
Colt Hynes, who went 1-4 with a 3.67 for two Triple-A teams last year, is also a candidate for the spot.