Blue Jays Reinstate Wagner, Adjust Roster

Infielder Returns as Francis Moves to 60-Day IL

The Toronto Blue Jays have reinstated infielder **Will Wagner** from the restricted list, marking his return to the active roster. In a corresponding move, outfielder **Alex Roden** has been optioned to Triple-A Buffalo.

Francis Transferred to Injured List

To create a necessary 40-man roster spot for **Wagner**, right-handed pitcher **Bowden Francis** has been moved to the 60-day injured list. **Francis** was initially placed on the 15-day IL on June 15th with a right shoulder impingement.

Wagner’s Brief Absence

**Wagner** had stepped away from the team for two days to attend his father, Hall of Famer **Billy Wagner**’s, induction ceremony. During **Wagner**’s brief absence, the Blue Jays utilized his 40-man spot by placing catcher **Alejandro Kirk** on the seven-day concussion injured list and selecting catcher **Ali Sánchez** to the roster.

Francis’s Recovery Timeline

With his 60-day injured list designation being retroactive to June 15th, **Francis** could be eligible for reinstatement in mid-August. However, he has not yet begun a rehabilitation assignment, suggesting his return to full health may not be imminent.

The Blue Jays’ roster adjustments reflect the dynamic nature of baseball operations, where player availability and team needs constantly influence personnel decisions. This season, MLB teams have seen an average of 15.8 players on the injured list at any given time, highlighting the importance of depth and flexibility. FanGraphs (2024).