Justin

Shafer

They needed to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for Isan Diaz. Shafer was claimed off waivers just after Opening Day and allowed eight runs over five appearances before being optioned a few weeks ago.

Shafer was just knocked around in back-to-back games, so the Marlins wanted a fresh arm for their bullpen. Brandon Leibrandt and Brett Eibner are joining the club Tuesday.

Shafer was just designated by the Reds a few days ago. The Reds have had their own issue with COVID in recent days, but now he’s headed to a team with a legitimate outbreak. The 27-year-old posted a 3.86 ERA and 39/25 K/BB ratio over 39 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays last year.

The club wanted to free up a couple spots on the 40-man roster and Shafer is one of the casualties. He was acquired from the Blue Jays for cash over the offseason.

Shafer has made just one appearance this spring due to flexor mass irritation. He could make the bullpen if healthy but does have options remaining.

Shafter, 27, was designated for assignment on Wednesday to make room on the 40-man roster for a pair of Toronto prospects that would have been subject to the Rule 5 draft. The 27-year-old posted a 3.86 ERA over 39 2/3 innings while issuing 25 walks and allowing 41 hits. He’ll compete for a spot in the Reds’ bullpen this spring.

The Blue Jays needed to remove someone from the 40-man roster to add players before the deadline, and it’s Shafer who gets the boot. The 27-year-old was able to register a 3.86 ERA over 39 2/3 innings in 2019, but he issued 25 walks while allowing 41 hits. Whether he accepts his assignment to Triple-A -- or doesn’t get claimed -- he’ll be organizational depth in 2020.

Shafer has issued 22 walks in 31 innings this season, but he has somehow managed a 3.19 ERA. The 26-year-old right-hander will function as a middle reliever for the Blue Jays down the stretch.

Shafer has been roughed up of late. He’ll be back when rosters expand.

Jordan Romano will take his spot on the active roster. Giles should be back with the club in a few days. Justin Shafer could be called on for save chances during his absence.