June 7, 2008 Reliever Armando Benitez has been designated for assignment, according to the AP. The team activated infielder John McDonald and outfielder Vernon Wells, as well.
Our View:Benitez crashed and burned as a setup man for Toronto this season, as he allowed four runs, four hits, and two walks over 6.1 innings. He did register nine strikeouts, but was too ineffective to keep.
May 10, 2008 Armando Benitez has been promoted from Triple-A Syracuse, according to globeandmail.com. Jeremy Accardo has been placed on the DL due to a right forearm strain, and Benitez has been brought in to cover his spot on the roster.
Our View:Benitez allowed 30 earned runs and 29 walks over 50.1 innings in 2007, and will hold little to no fantasy value during his time with Toronto this season. His strikeout totals could be favorable (57 in 2007), but not much else.
April 15, 2008 Armando Benitez has been trying to work his way back into the league through the Jays minor league system, but suffered a setback on Monday as he pulled his hamstring while moving to cover first base during a game with Triple-A Syracuse, according to the Toronto Star.
Our View:His fantasy stock remains limited.
March 11, 2008 The Toronto Blue Jays have signed veteran pitcher Armando Benitez to a minor league contract, according to The Star. Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi said this about the 35-year old reliever, " He hasn't got in shape, but we're going to keep stockpiling as many arms as we can. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. We're not looking for a closer."
September 22, 2007 Armando Benitez had a long-toss session on Wednesday. However, he said his back remained tight, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Benitez didn't travel with the Marlins for their weekend series, and it remains unclear if he will be available again before the season wraps up.
