Blue Jays option trio to Triple-A Buffalo

TORONTO -- The Blue Jays are poised to do some serious roster re-shuffling ahead of their series opener against the Rays. The club sent down three players following a 13-9 loss to the Orioles on Sunday at Rogers Centre.

Starting pitcher Scott Copeland and relievers Ryan Tepera and Phil Coke were optioned to Triple-A Buffalo, with the corresponding moves set to be made on Monday.

The Blue Jays are likely in need of available relief help for Monday's game, after the team used seven relievers against the Orioles in the series finale. Copeland lasted only 1 1/3 innings in what was his third start in place of injured right-hander Aaron Sanchez, which taxed Toronto's bullpen.

Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said the team hadn't yet decided if they'll take advantage of an off-day on Thursday and skip Copeland's now-vacant spot in the rotation the next time it rolls around. But he said Sanchez, who's working his way back from a mild lat strain, won't be ready.

The Blue Jays are expecting the return of second baseman Devon Travis sometime this week, and R.A. Dickey is expected to come off the bereavement list in time to start on Tuesday.