Blue Jays claim Ty Kelly off waivers from Mets

Infielder Ty Kelly has been claimed off waivers by the Toronto Blue Jays. Kelly was designated for assignment last week when the Mets promoted Paul Sewald to help bolster an overworked bullpen. Kelly remained with the team back in February after he had to clear waivers when the Mets had to make room on the 40-man roster after they re-signed Jerry Blevins. Kelly went unclaimed and was outrighted to Las Vegas.

Known for his versatility and his patience at the plate, Kelly made his first Opening Day roster this season, and appeared in one game as a pinch hitter against the Braves. He also played in the World Baseball Classic for Team Israel, who went on an incredible run before being eliminated by Team Japan.

The switch hitter made his major league debut with the Mets last season and was serviceable in his brief tenure with the big league club. He played multiple positions in both the infield and outfield, and was not a liability at any of them. He hit .241/.352/.345, which was enough to earn him a spot on the Wild Card roster. He appeared as a pinch hitter in that game and was one of the few to pick up a hit against a lights-out Madison Bumgarner.

The loss of Kelly will hurt the team’s depth and versatility, but with both T.J. Rivera and Wilmer Flores as options in the infield, and Amed Rosario and Gavin Cecchini waiting in the wings, the team is equipped enough to deal with any eventual injuries.