Blue Jays Sign Hutchison, 4 Others to Minor-League Deals

The Blue Jays announced the signings of five minor-league free agents Friday: 

• C Rob Brantly
• RHP Julian Fernández
• RHP Drew Hutchison
• LHP Paul Fry
• RHP Casey Lawrence

All five deals include invites to major-league spring training in 2023. 

Hutchison, 32, is a notable signing as he returns to the Blue Jays after appearing in 76 games with the organization from 2012 to 2016. The native of Lakeland, Fla., went 3-9 with a 4.53 ERA for the Tigers last season.

Fernández, 27, is another intriguing piece. The right-handed reliever can ramp his fastball all the way up to 99 mph with excellent spin and extension. Fernández had a 10.80 ERA in six relief appearances with the Rockies a year ago but seems like a decent upside signing if he can harness his fiery arsenal.