The Seattle Mariners have strengthened their bullpen by acquiring right-hander Yimi García from the Toronto Blue Jays. In exchange, the Mariners are sending outfielder Jonatan Clase and catcher Jacob Sharp to Toronto, the teams announced on Friday.
The Blue Jays have optioned Clase to Triple-A Buffalo and called up right-hander Zach Pop to fill García’s spot on the roster.
García has been a standout performer in a Blue Jays bullpen that has struggled in various statistical categories. The 33-year-old reliever holds a 3-0 record with a 2.70 ERA, 2.64 FIP, and 12.60 K/9 over 30 innings. García previously pitched in the AL West with the Houston Astros in 2021.
“Yimi has been one of the best relievers in the American League this year – dominating the strike zone, missing bats, and pitching in high leverage,” Mariners general manager Justin Hollander said. “He has big-game experience, and we’re excited to add him to our bullpen.”
Jonatan Clase, ranked as Seattle’s No. 13 prospect by Baseball America, made his MLB debut this season. The 22-year-old outfielder has hit .195 with three RBIs and three stolen bases in 19 games. Known for his speed, Clase stole 79 bases across two minor-league levels in 2023.
Jacob Sharp, also 22, has hit six home runs with 29 RBIs and a .774 OPS in 44 games at Single-A this season. Sharp was selected in the 17th round of the 2023 draft.
