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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Paul Sewald acknowledges the final out against the San Diego Padres during the ninth inning of a Major League Baseball game on Aug. 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
By The Canadian Press

Toronto Blue Jays activate veteran reliever Sewald, option Estrada to triple-A

Aug 14, 2026 | 1:51 PM

TORONTO — The Toronto Blue Jays activated veteran reliever Paul Sewald on Friday before the opener of a three-game series against the visiting New York Yankees.

The 36-year-old right-hander was claimed off waivers from the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday.

Sewald will likely be used primarily against right-handed hitters and could be a mid-game or late-inning option, manager John Schneider said in his pre-game availability.

“He’s ready to get to work and he’s ready for any kind of role that does develop,” Schneider said.

Sewald was 2-5 with 24 saves and a 6.23 ERA over 45 appearances this year for the Diamondbacks. The 10-year MLB veteran, has a 4.30 earned-run average over 426 career regular-season games.

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Submariner Tyler Rogers and closer Louis Varland are Toronto’s main high-leverage options.

The Blue Jays also optioned reliever Lazaro Estrada to triple-A Buffalo. The right-hander was 1-1 with a 5.54 ERA and one save over eight appearances.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 14, 2026.

Gregory Strong, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

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What Matters

Ongoing Wildfire Concerns
State of Local Emergency being extended
1h ago
Wildfire Damages
Work ongoing to restore power at Okanagan fire areas
2h ago
Work Starts Monday
Downtown Parkade getting upgrades, will mostly remain open
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Cause Under Investigation
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Wildfire Update
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