BLUE JAYS CLAIM BURNETT AND ROBINSON

 (courtesy of the Toronto Blue Jays)

The TORONTO BLUE JAYS have claimed RHP ALEX BURNETT off waivers from the Minnesota Twins and 1B CLINT ROBINSON from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Burnett has been optioned to Buffalo of the International League (AAA), while Robinson has been optioned to New Hampshire of the Eastern League (AA).

BURNETT, 25, appeared in 67 games for the Twins in 2012 posting a 4-4 record with a 3.52 ERA. The 6-0, 221 pound right-hander has spent all of his three year Major League career with Minnesota, recording an 8-11 mark and a 4.61 ERA in 174 relief appearances.

ROBINSON, 28, made his Major League debut last season with Kansas City, appearing four games, going 0-4 in four pinch hit appearances. The 6-5, 238 pound left-handed hitter spent the majority of 2012 with Omaha (AAA) batting .292 with 37 doubles, 13 home runs and 67 RBI. Robinson has a career .902 OPS in six minor league seasons.

To make room on the 40-man roster 1B LARS ANDERSON has been designated for assignment. The Blue Jays now stand at 40 players on the 40-man roster.