Blue Jays acquire Jeffress

The TORONTO BLUE JAYS have acquired RHP JEREMY JEFFRESS from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for cash considerations.

JEFFRESS, 25, made 13 appearances in relief for the Kansas City Royals last season without a decision, posting a 6.75 ERA.  In 13 1/3 innings, the 6-0, 195lb. native of South Boston, Virginia allowed 19 hits with 13 walks and 13 strikeouts.  In 38 relief appearances combined between Omaha of the Pacific Coast League (AAA) and Northwest Arkansas of the Texas League (AA), he posted a record of 5-4 with a 4.85 ERA with three saves and 64 strikeouts in 59 1/3 innings.  In parts of three Major League seasons with Milwaukee (2010) and Kansas City (2011-2012) he has made 37 relief appearances, posting a 2-1 record with one save and a 4.89 ERA.

To make room on the 40-man roster for Jeffress/Izturis, the Blue Jays have designated LHP SCOTT MAINE for assignment.