The Toronto Blue Jays are ending the Jaime Garcia project after just one season, as the team announced Saturday that he was designated for assignment, thus clearing room for starting pitcher Aaron Sanchez.

The Blue Jays signed Garcia to a one-year deal worth $8 million in February, with a team option for 2019. However, Garcia wasn't able to establish himself as a reliable starter, finishing with a horrible 5.93 ERA while posting a mere 3-6 record.

Garcia was the latest free agent flop signing by the Blue Jays, and shoulder inflammation also cut down his season. He had posted 10-win seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2015 and 2016, and the Blue Jays had hoped that he would be able to slot in as the No. 4 or 5 starter, but it simply didn't pan out. A move to the bullpen didn't do much to change Garcia's performance, either.

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The Blue Jays rotation figures to look a whole lot different in 2019 than it did on opening day this year. Starter J.A. Happ performed well, but he was ultimately flipped to the New York Yankees at the trade deadline.

Marco Estrada was re-signed to a one-year deal last season, but he once again struggled with command and consistency. The Blue Jays most certainly won't bring back the 35-year-old after yet another frustrating season, and Estrada may need to wait a while before he finds a home in free agency.

Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez, barring any trades, will lead the rotation in 2019. Ryan Borucki has performed well in 11 outings, so he'll likely have a spot as well. That means Atkins may have to trade or sign a pair of starters this winter, unless the Blue Jays feel that some of their pitching prospects are ready for the majors.

The Garcia experiment was a low-risk move for the Blue Jays, and it simply didn't pan out. It was only a one-year deal, however, so they're cleared and can spend the money elsewhere this offseason.

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