I wonder what the opposite of a fist pump is or could it be a fist thrust downwards or possibly a fist bump? Either way, B.J. Ryan is likely doing the opposite of his trademark enthusiastic celebration after hearing he was released by the Blue Jays earlier today.
Even though Ryan is still owed $15 million dollars, the move was a smart one rather than parading him out there in the mop up role for the next season and a half. The Beej had two great seasons as the closer for the Blue Jays, with 37 saves in 2006 and 32 saves back in 2008.
Undoubtedly, J.P. Ricciardi has learned a very costly lesson about signing a closer with one year of experience in that role to the biggest contract ever dealt out for a relief pitcher. From now on, it's pretty safe to say that Scott Downs will hold down the reins in late innings for the Blue Jays.
Ryan was paid well to close games for the Blue Jays, but ultimately he could not fulfill his end of the bargain and in the end he couldn't even save himself.
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