As training camp comes to a close, the Blue Jays made some transactions, releasing John Axford and a few minor leaguers.

The Axford move is likely to save a little bit of money, as he’s currently injured and, as an Article XX(B) free agent, he would have to be paid a $100,000 retention bonus for him to stay in the minor leagues. As suggested by Shi Davidi and MLB Trade Rumors, the Blue Jays “may have released Axford simply to rework his contract.”

Apparently, Bud Norris is not making the Jays’ Opening Day roster (according to the same article, although I find it hard to believe with all the injuries to Jays pitchers) but he was paid the $100,000 retention bonus and will not exercise his opt-out.

On the minor league side of the things, the Blue Jays have released several minor leaguers through their training camp. From the GCL roster, the Jays released lefty Joe DiBenedetto, from the Bluefield roster, Claudio Galva, Brennan Price and Alvaro Galindo were released.

Tyler Olander was released from the Vancouver Canadians’ roster, while Andrew Deramo was released from the Lugnuts’ roster. Finally, from the Fisher Cats roster, Josh DeGraaf retired.

We wish all these Blue Jays the best in their future endeavours.

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