TORONTO -- Left-hander Francisco Liriano likely will not be available out of the bullpen during this weekend's crucial series vs. the Red Sox. Liriano is under consideration to start Monday's series opener against the Rays, which would make him unavailable for the next few days.
Toronto manager John Gibbons declined to get into specifics about what factors were being considered on whether or not to use Liriano as a starter. The club previously announced he was going to start again this year, but that he was temporarily being moved to the bullpen.
Liriano made his first relief appearance since 2012 during a game against the Rays on Sept. 2. He pitched two innings as a reliever and allowed three runs -- two earned -- on a pair of hits while striking out three.
"There's a chance he's going to start Monday, so [he] probably won't [pitch out of the 'pen this weekend]," Gibbons said. "He might, but no guarantees."
Worth noting
• Four-time Olympic swimming medalist Penny Oleksiak threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to Friday's game against Boston. Oleksiak picked up the gold medal in the 100m freestyle, silver in the 100m butterfly, bronze in the women's 4x100m freestyle relay and bronze in the 4x200 freestyle relay at the recent Olympic Games in Brazil.
Oleksiak was recognized for her achievements by being named Canada's flag bearer in the closing ceremonies. The 16-year-old native of Toronto then got her due with a standing ovation at Rogers Centre while throwing out the first pitch to right-hander Aaron Sanchez.