Blue Jays designate LHP Francis for assignment

Jeff Francis. (Lynne Sladky/AP)

The Toronto Blue Jays have designated left-handed pitcher Jeff Francis for assignment and have called up right-hander Todd Redmond from triple-A Buffalo.

Francis, 34, struggled with the Blue Jays, recording a 6.75 ERA spread over 12 innings pitched in eight appearances.

Redmond, 30, was designated for assignment on April 16 after struggles of his own that saw him record a dismal 16.62 ERA in just two relief appearances.

Following a four-game series sweep at the hands of the Houston Astros, the Blue Jays have now dropped six of their last seven games and are in need of pitching help. Toronto is currently ranked 29th over 30 teams in team ERA (4.78) and 20th in reliever ERA (3.91).

Toronto opens a four-game series at home against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.

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