The Toronto Blue Jays gave reliever B.J. Ryan his unconditional release and activated left-hander Scott Downs from the 15-day disabled list and on Wednesday.
Ryan, 33, had appeared in 25 games this season, posting a 1-1 record with just two saves and an ERA of 6.53. The 6'5 lefty was on the disabled list from April 23 to May 15 with tightness in his left trapezius.
Downs, meanwhile, now in his sixth season in Toronto, had been on the DL with a left toe sprain since June 18. Downs is 1-0 with eight saves and a 1.98 ERA in 26 games this season.
The 33-year-old has a 15-10 record with 15 saves and a 3.14 ERA in 258 career games with the Jays.