Blue Jays activate closer Giles from IL
The Toronto Blue Jays have their closer back.
Right-hander Ken Giles, who hasn't pitched since July due to an elbow issue, was activated from the 45-day injured list as part of a flurry of roster moves ahead of Friday's game against the New York Mets.
Giles put up a 10.80 ERA in just 1 2/3 innings at the beginning of 2020 before landing on the IL. Manager Charlie Montoyo told reporters Wednesday the 29-year-old wouldn't immediately be used in the ninth inning once activated, according to Sportsnet's Shi Davidi.
Catching prospect Alejandro Kirk was also promoted to the Blue Jays roster Friday. Kirk, the organization's sixth-best prospect according to MLB.com, received the call despite having never appeared in a game above the High-A level. The 21-year-old owns a .315/.418/.500 slash line in three minor-league seasons, and has walked 89 times compared to 60 strikeouts.
Outfielder Billy McKinney and catcher Caleb Joseph were both designated for assignment to open 40-man roster spots for Giles and Kirk.
Additionally, Toronto recalled right-hander Jacob Waguespack while optioning right-hander Sean Reid-Foley.