Blue Jays designate Shun Yamaguchi for assignment, claim Joel Payamps

February 11, 2021 - 9:16am

Toronto Blue Jays coach John Schneider looks on as pitcher Shun Yamaguchi throws. (Steve Nesius/CP)

The Toronto Blue Jays have designated right-handed pitcher Shun Yamaguchi for assignment, per the team’s transaction page.

#BlueJays have designated Shun Yamaguchi for assignment per the team's transactions page. @thehazelmae reported this move, which creates roster space for Joel Payamps

Yamaguchi had an 8.06 ERA last year with 17 BB & 6HR allowed in 25.2 IP. Lost trust early & didn't re-gain it.

— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) February 11, 2021

The move allows the club to make room on their roster for right-handed pitcher Joel Payamps, who the Blue Jays claimed off waivers.

Yamaguchi, 33, posted a 8.03 ERA and a 1.75 WHIP in 25.2 innings pitched last season. The righty also recorded a 2-4 record and had 26 strikeouts.

Payamps, 26, only pitched for three innings during shortened 2020 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He was frequently recalled and optioned to Arizona’s alternate training site and was claimed by the Boston Red Sox in November. The Red Sox designated Payamps for assignment on Feb. 3.