TORONTO - The Toronto Blue Jays acquired right-hander Merkin Valdez from the San Francisco Giants for cash considerations on Wednesday.
Valdez appeared in 48 games for the Giants last season, going 2-1 with a 5.66 earned-run average in his first full big-league season.
He becomes the 59th player on the Blue Jays spring roster and will compete for a spot in the bullpen.
"He throws up to 98," Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos said via email. "We're just adding some depth, taking a shot on a power arm."
The 28-year-old from the Dominican Republic has a career record of 3-1 with a 5.24 ERA in 67 games, including one start.
Valdez is also out of options, meaning he must clear waivers if he doesn't break with the Blue Jays.
