The Toronto Blue Jays had a two-run lead going into the ninth inning on Wednesday but there was some surprise when Erik Swanson came out of the bullpen.
Making his first appearance of the season against the fifth, sixth and seventh hitters in the New York Yankees lineup, Swanson didn’t have the best return, giving up a home run to Giancarlo Stanton. Swanson was pulled after allowing three runs on three hits and a walk.
Next up was Tim Mayza, who couldn’t limit the damage as the Yankees would add to their lead to complete a four-run ninth inning.
Many wondered why the Blue Jays had Swanson making his first appearance of the season in a high-leverage situation and it appears the team did not have many options available.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider told reporters after the game that Chad Green was not able to pitch in the series finale because of shoulder soreness.
Schneider hopes the issue is just a short-term one for Green. He also said that Jordan Romano and Yimi Garcia were not available to pitch.
Green has appeared in seven games this season, recording a 2.35 ERA, two saves, seven strikeouts and two walks in 7.2 innings.
Both Garcia and Romano pitched in Tuesday’s 5-4 win over the Yankees.
Swanson was activated from the injured list Tuesday after right forearm inflammation kept out to start the season. Swanson made three rehab appearances before rejoining the bullpen.
