Pearson part of Toronto's non-roster invites to ST

TORONTO -- With pitchers and catchers reporting Wednesday to Dunedin, Fla., for Spring Training, the Blue Jays have announced their internal non-roster invitees to camp, highlighted by top prospect Nate Pearson, three of the club’s other Top 30 prospects and a new addition to the squad.

Pearson, the No. 8 overall prospect per MLB Pipeline, posted a 2.30 ERA across three Minor League levels during the 2019 season. The flamethrower struck out 119 batters in 101 2/3 innings and finished his year at Triple-A Buffalo. The 23-year-old right-hander is joined by catchers Alejandro Kirk (No. 12 on Toronto's Top 30) and Riley Adams (No. 27), as well as infielder Kevin Smith, who is ranked No. 13.

Left-handed hurler Brian Moran will also attend Blue Jays camp, joining the organization on a Minor League contract. The 31-year-old made his Major League debut last season with the Marlins and posted a 4.26 ERA with 10 strikeouts and two walks in 10 outings for Miami. He also owned a 3.15 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP with 77 strikeouts in 60 innings at Triple-A New Orleans.

Right-hander Jake Petricka agreed to terms on a Minor League contract with Toronto on Tuesday. Petricka made six appearances for the Milwaukee Brewers last season, posting a 3.38 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP. The 31-year-old also pitched in 40 Triple-A games in 2019, where he went 2-2 with a 3.74 ERA. Petricka spent his '18 campaign as a member of the Blue Jays and put together a 3-1 record with a 4.53 ERA across 41 outings. In seven Major League seasons, he has a 10-12 record and a 3.96 ERA over 228 relief appearances.

Toronto’s invitees are rounded out by right-handers Bryan Baker and Ty Tice, southpaws Travis Bergen and Kirby Snead, infielders Nash Knight and Logan Warmoth, and outfielders Josh Palacios and Forrest Wall.