Blue Jays acquire Font from Mets for cash

July 17th, 2019

BOSTON -- The Blue Jays acquired right-hander from the Mets in exchange for cash considerations on Wednesday.

Font has made 22 relief appearances for the Mets and Rays this season, along with three starts in New York, combining to go 2-2 with a 5.20 ERA. The 29-year-old started the season with the Rays, but he was traded to the Mets on May 6.

Last year, Font went 2-1 in nine games (five starts) with a 1.67 ERA. His season was cut short in late June because of a lat strain.

“Before he got hurt, he pitched really well for the Rays last year,” Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said. “He opened a lot of games. So I’m thinking I will do that here, too, with him.”

Montoyo likes the way Font can attack the plate. Font has thrown his four-seamer an average of over 94 mph the past two seasons.

“He throws hard, and that’s a good sign for a good opener,” Montoyo said. “[He's hitting] 95, 96. That’s always good to start a game.”

Over his five-year Major League career, the 6-foot-4, 250-pound pitcher has posted a 4-5 record with a 6.00 ERA in 96 innings.

Montoyo is uncertain when Font will be available, because he has to obtain a work visa for the Blue Jays. A corresponding active roster move will be made when Font reports to the Major League team.