Photo credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images
Bowden Francis moves to the 60-day injured list, opening a valuable roster spot for Ben Cowles as the Blue Jays aggressively build their depth.
Losing a familiar face right as spring training kicks off in Dunedin is always a tough pill to swallow.
Bowden Francis (Drafted 7th round, 2017 by Milwaukee) is officially out for the entire 2026 season to recover from elbow surgery.
We all know his 2025 season was a massive struggle before the shoulder impingement derailed his summer.
He posted a rough 2-8 record alongside a 6.05 ERA and 54 strikeouts in 14 starts last year.
It was hard watching a guy who dominated late in 2024 suddenly lose his command and confidence on the mound.
The reality of reconstructive UCL surgery is incredibly brutal for any professional pitcher.
But stepping away to fully heal might be exactly what his right arm needs to find that electric stuff again.
This procedural roster move gives the front office a golden opportunity to inject fresh energy into the organization right now.
Ben Cowles brings serious defensive versatility to Toronto
Fans are genuinely relieved to see the team claiming an athletic infielder who can fly around the bases.
Ben Cowles (Drafted 10th round, 2021 by New York Yankees) gives the coaching staff a fascinating new puzzle piece to evaluate.
The Chicago Cubs recently waived him, but his ability to smoothly play shortstop, second base, and third base is highly coveted.
He spent his 2025 season down in Triple-A, hitting .235 with 9 home runs and stealing a handful of bases.
Those offensive numbers might not instantly jump off the page, but his minor league track record shows real defensive value.
A true playoff contender relies heavily on gritty players who can step in seamlessly when the everyday stars need rest.
The American League East is an absolute gauntlet that demands a deep and flexible bench from opening day onward.
We need all the defensive insurance we can possibly stockpile behind our starting rotation this summer.
Our front office is clearly leaving no stone unturned to find the right mix of talent for the long haul.
We have to welcome the new guys while sending nothing but positive vibes to Francis for his rehab.
It is time to see what this hungry young infielder can do under the bright lights of the Rogers Centre.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
Toronto Blue Jays acquire infielder from the Chicago Cubs
Toronto Blue Jays acquire infielder from the Chicago Cubs