Blue Jays’ Turner reinstated from paternity list, Springer returns vs. Mariners

Toronto Blue Jays' Justin Turner dashes down the first base line on his RBI single during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, Monday, June 24, 2024, in Boston. (Charles Krupa/AP)

Justin Turner and George Springer will return to the Toronto Blue Jays lineup in the second game of their series against the Seattle Mariners.

The Blue Jays announced that the designated hitter has been reinstated from paternity list after missing three games. In a corresponding move, infielder Addison Barger has been optioned to triple-A Buffalo.

Manager John Schneider told reporters before the game that, though not in the starting lineup, Turner may be available for the Blue Jays off the bench.

Springer was not a part of the lineup for the series opener. He has struggled hitting .216/.305/.347 with nine home runs and 28 RBI.

The Blue Jays also announced that left-handed reliever Tim Mayza cleared waivers and is now a free agent.

Turner, 39, is slashing .250/.359/.375 with five home runs, 15 doubles and 27 RBIs after signing a one-year contract with Toronto this off-season.

The two-time all-star has heated up as of late, posting a .321 average in June.

Barger, 24, is slashing .150/.177/.183 with nine hits and four RBI since joining the big club in mid-June. He’s struggled of late, collecting just one hit in his past 15 at-bats.

The Blue Jays look to even the series against the Mariners when they take to the field on Saturday. Watch the game live at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.

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