The Toronto Blue Jays announced Thursday that they have acquired Brad Hand, a three-time All Star closer from the Washington Nationals, to replace Riley Adams as minor league catcher.Hand is currently 5-5 with a 3.59 ERA this season and 21 saves.This offseason, Hand signed a $10.5 million contract for one year with the Nats. After a solid season in 2020 as the Cleveland Indians' closer, he was now a victim to the salary purge that will take place in 2021.Blue Jays have suffered a variety of injuries to their bullpen. This began with Kirby Yates being operated on by Tommy John to begin the season.Julian Merryweather (oblique), Tyler Chatwood(neck), Carl Edwards Jr. ("neck"), and David Phelps (lost for the season) were also absent after he had surgery on his right lat.Baseball America considers Adams, 25, the best power hitter within Toronto's system. After hitting.239 in Triple-A East Buffalo, Adams was able to score seven homers and 17 RBIs over 35 games.
