Lefty Oramas granted release by Blue Jays

NEW YORK -- The Blue Jays have granted left-hander Juan Pablo Oramas his unconditional release so he can play professionally in Mexico.

Oramas was designated for assignment prior to Opening Day in a series of moves that created space on the 40-man roster for rookies Roberto Osuna, Miguel Castro and Devon Travis.

The 24-year-old Oramas has been a regular participant in the Mexican Winter League for the past several years, but he hasn't pitched in Mexico full time since 2009. He grew up in the country and appeared eager to return, since he didn't have a clear path to the big leagues with the Blue Jays.

Oramas was claimed off waivers from the Padres in December. Last year, he went 10-7 with a 4.75 ERA in 27 combined games between Triple-A El Paso and Double-A San Antonio. Oramas likely would have started the year in Toronto's system at either Triple-A Buffalo or Double-A New Hampshire.