Mariners acquire García from Blue Jays
The Seattle Mariners are bolstering their bullpen, acquiring right-hander Yimi García from the Toronto Blue Jays for outfielder Jonatan Clase and catcher Jacob Sharp, the clubs announced Friday.
The Blue Jays immediately optioned Clase to Triple-A Buffalo and recalled right-hander Zach Pop to take García's spot on the roster.
Yimi Garcia says he was expecting today's trade — his family has had its bags packed for a while
— Arden Zwelling (@ArdenZwelling) July 26, 2024
Described the feeling when Ross Atkins informed him this afternoon as “a mix of emotions"
García has been one of the bright spots for a Blue Jays bullpen that ranks among the bottom of the league in many categories. The 33-year-old owns a 3-0 record with a 2.70 ERA, 2.64 FIP, and 12.60 K/9 across 30 innings. García has experience pitching in the AL West, spending 21 games 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 in a statement. "He has big-game experience, and we're excited to add him to our bullpen."
Clase was Seattle's No. 13 prospect, according to Baseball America. The 22-year-old made his MLB debut this season, hitting .195 with three RBIs and three stolen bases in 19 games. Clase's best tool is his speed, as he stole 79 bases across a pair of minor-league levels in 2023.
Sharp hit six home runs with 29 RBIs and a .774 OPS in 44 games at Single-A this season. The 22-year-old was a 17th-round pick in the 2023 draft.