The Toronto Blue Jays released speedy outfielder Joey Gathright yesterday, amidst a terrible Spring Training season in which Gathright hit a horrendous .167 in 42 at bats, with two stolen bases and an on base percentage of .186.

Gathright was signed to a minor league deal in the offseason with Toronto hoping he would bring an element of speed to the club.

Gathright was willing to take a minor league assignment with the Jays, but the club felt it unfair for the player to be stashed away in the minors when there were opportunities elsewhere.

Jays manager Cito Gaston said the final bench spot on the ball club would be between outfielder Jeremy Reed & utility infielder Mike McCoy.

Reed, signed to a minor league deal in the offseason, has impressed in spring batting .420 with 21 hits, 10RBI, and an on base percentage of .453 while also stealing three bags. Reed can also play all three outfield spots and is a left handed bat which is needed coming off the Jays bench, which is currently right handed heavy.

McCoy, a waiver claim via the Colorado Rockies, got off to a hot start this spring, but has been missing in action due to a shoulder injury. McCoy recently came back to Toronto’s spring line-up and is proving roster spot worthy. McCoy also brings an element of speed to the ballclub, as well as a knack for getting on base.

The Jays projected bench coming into Opening Day will feature a backup catcher, either Jose Molina or Raul Chavez, infielder John McDonald, first baseman/designated hitter Randy Ruiz & one of either Reed or McCoy.

The battle for the last spot on the Jays team should be an intense one, but it will not include Gathright as he begins his search for a new Major League ballclub.

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