The Toronto Blue Jays have made a move to bolster their bullpen, acquiring right-handed reliever Joel Kuhnel from the Houston Astros.
Kuhnel, 26, has spent the majority of his career in the minor leagues, but has shown promise with a fastball that can reach up to 98 mph. He made his major league debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 2019, appearing in 11 games and posting a 4.50 ERA.
The Blue Jays hope that Kuhnel’s power arm will provide some much-needed depth to their bullpen, which has struggled at times this season. With a record of 33-35, the team is currently sitting in fourth place in the American League East and is looking to make a push for a playoff spot.
In exchange for Kuhnel, the Blue Jays sent cash considerations to the Astros. This move comes just days after the team acquired veteran reliever Adam Cimber from the Miami Marlins.
Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins expressed his excitement about the addition of Kuhnel, stating, “We believe Joel has the potential to be a valuable asset to our bullpen. His fastball has a lot of life and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do in a Blue Jays uniform.”
Kuhnel will report to the Blue Jays’ alternate training site in Buffalo, New York, where he will work on refining his pitches and getting acclimated to the team’s system. It is unclear when he will make his debut with the major league club.
This trade is just one of many moves the Blue Jays have made this season as they continue to build a competitive team. With a young core of talented players, the team is looking to make a statement in the highly competitive AL East.
Fans are eager to see how Kuhnel will contribute to the team and are hopeful that he will help the Blue Jays secure a spot in the postseason. Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the Blue Jays are making moves and are determined to make a run for the playoffs.
