Copeland optioned after dominant first start

TORONTO -- Scott Copeland was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo following the Blue Jays' 7-2 victory over the Marlins on Wednesday at Rogers Centre.

Copeland had just turned in an outstanding spot start for Toronto, going seven innings while allowing one earned run in his first big league start to help the Blue Jays sweep the Marlins. But it was apparent that he'd be headed back to the Bisons, and Toronto made the announcement an hour after the final pitch was thrown. A corresponding roster move will be announced on Friday.

Copeland said he hoped he'd made a positive impression on the organization as he stood in for rookie right-hander Aaron Sanchez, whose start was skipped in order to give him extra rest.

"Hopefully the manager's and coaches' eyes are opened now, and next time something happens, I'll be up here," Copeland said.

Sanchez will get a full 10 days of rest when he takes the mound for his next outing, which is slated for Tuesday in New York against the Mets.

Copeland is 4-1 with a 1.97 ERA in seven starts with the Bisons this season.

"It's his first start for us. He definitely opened up everybody's eyes," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said. "I think everyone thought he was good, but to go out and actually do it, it's only gonna help him out in the future."