BJ Ryan

With the news of the release of the two-time All-Star closer, the question looms about where B.J. Ryan will end up.

Ryan, who has struggled a bit this year, will definitely be a steal for whoever picks him up.

Look to the stats. He has had over 30 saves three times in his career. He has a career 3.37 ERA and 112 saves.

Ryan, who this year has battled a left shoulder injury this year, has definitely struggled for the Jays. He is 1-1 with a 6.53 ERA and only two saves in 20 2/3 innings.

The Toronto Blue Jays released former closer B.J. Ryan prior to Wednesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays.

As a result, the two-time All Star is now a free agent and can be signed for a prorated portion of the league minimum salary. The Blue Jays are responsible for the roughly $15 million remaining on his contract. The contract—at one time the highest-ever given to a reliever—runs through next season.

In a somewhat surprising move today, the Toronto Blue Jays have cut ties with former All-Star relief pitcher B.J. Ryan.

The Blue Jays signed Ryan to a mammoth five-year deal, which was the largest ever for a reliever at the time, following the 2005 season.

Ryan, who was the Blue Jays' closer as recently as this year, has struggled mightily this entire season. In 20.2 innings pitched, Ryan posted an ERA hovering near seven, which is more than double his career ERA (3.37).

The Toronto Blue Jays have had issues with their current closer this year. 

BJ Ryan, a formerly established closer, has not done very well to date this season. Ryan blew his second save of the season last Tuesday, and there is chatter that his job could be on the line.

Ryan has also had velocity issues, with his fastball speed down to the 85-87 range.  If Cito Gaston makes a change at the closer role, who will he turn to?