John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Blue Jays release Anthony Bass after controversial pitcher clears waivers

Originally posted on Bluejaysnation | By Thomas Hall | Last updated 6/16/23

Anthony Bass’ tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays is officially over.

The 35-year-old righty, designated for assignment on June 9, cleared waivers and was released by the Blue Jays on Thursday, per the team’s transactions page.

It is no surprise Bass went unclaimed, as he struggled mightily over 22 relief appearances with Toronto, posting a 4.95 ERA, 5.04 xERA and a 4.68 FIP across 20.0 innings, worth an even zero fWAR. He also surrendered three home runs and nine walks, inducing 19 strikeouts.

Bass also dug himself into a massive hole after sharing an Instagram reel on May 29 — which has since been deleted — endorsing the boycotts against Target and Bud Light for supporting the 2SLGBTQ+ community. The right-hander issued a pitiful 33-second apology at the Rogers Centre the next day, departing without answering any follow-up questions.

Statement from Anthony Bass: pic.twitter.com/UXLrx1HVO5

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) May 30, 2023

The final nail in the coffin came just over a week later, though, as Bass finally spoke to the media prior to the Blue Jays’ series finale versus the Houston Astros on June 8, where he contradicted his previous statement and actions when asked about his thoughts on the video he shared.

After everything, the 6-foot-2 hurler stood by his religious beliefs, saying the clip did not promote hate but that he should’ve realized how it would impact those around him. Thus, he committed to no longer making personal comments via social media.

Bass was asked if he thinks the video he shared on Instagram was hateful:

“I do not. That’s why I posted it originally. When I look back at it, I can see how people would view it that way and that’s why I was apologetic.” #BlueJays

— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) June 8, 2023

The veteran righty’s first stint with Toronto came during the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign, performing to a 3.51 ERA and 3.62 FIP over 26 appearances. He then joined the Miami Marlins in 2021, spending a season-and-a-half in the “Sunshine State” before rejoining the Blue Jays last season via trade, coming over with fellow righty Zach Pop in exchange for prospect Jordan Groshans.

Bass will now become a free agent, though the Blue Jays are still on the hook for the remainder of his $3 million salary. That will not change if he ends up signing with another team.

This article first appeared on Bluejaysnation and was syndicated with permission.

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