JUST IN: Tiger announces departure of two Veteran on Minor-league Deal

The Toronto Blue Jays have quietly bolstered their minor-league system by signing two players with previous Detroit Tigers connections:

Joe Mantiply, LHP

Veteran left-hander Joe Mantiply—who debuted with the Tigers in 2016—has signed a minor-league contract with Toronto and will head to the Florida Complex League after being released by the Arizona Diamondbacks in early June .

• Track record: Mantiply was named an All-Star in 2022 with the Diamondbacks, posting a 2.85 ERA and 1.083 WHIP over 60 innings.
• 2025 struggles: He struggled this season, recording a 15.83 ERA in 9.2 major‑league innings and a 5.56 ERA in 10 Triple‑A appearances.
• What this means: Mantiply joins a veteran lefty depth chart in minor leagues—joining the likes of Amir Garrett—offering Toronto organizational depth and a possible reclamation project .

Buddy Kennedy, INF

Utility infielder Buddy Kennedy, who played in Detroit’s Triple-A system this season, also landed a minor-league deal with Toronto on July 9, according to MLB’s transaction log .

• Triple-A performance: Despite a low .193/.287/.296 MLB line, Kennedy boasts a strong .279/.388/.432 batting line across ~1,600 Triple-A plate appearances .
• Defensive utility: Kennedy has experience at multiple positions, including second base, third base, first base, and even left field .
• Current start: He’s already debuted for Triple-A Buffalo, going 0-for-7 with a walk in his first eight plate appearances.

Why These Moves Matter

• For the Blue Jays: These low‑risk veteran additions enhance organisational depth. Mantiply brings experience and potential lefty bullpen support; Kennedy adds infield versatility and on-base ability.
• For the players: Mantiply has an opportunity to bounce back from a dismal stretch and reclaim form. Kennedy, with his minor‑league success, can leverage the change to make a case for a MLB call-up.
• Outlook ahead: While neither is a top prospect, both fit into Toronto’s strategy of adding experienced, versatile depth in hopes of late‑season contributions (or trade deadline attrition).