The Blue Jays optioned reliever Steve Delabar to the minor leagues Thursday in a move that paves the way for more youth on Toronto’s pitching staff.

Delabar, a 2013 all-star, battled command issues in 2014, but had arrived in spring training with his sights set on a bullpen job. In seven spring innings, the 31-year-old allowed seven hits and three earned runs while striking out nine and walking one.

Left-handers Brett Cecil and Aaron Loup are sure things for Toronto’s bullpen, and manager John Gibbons has indicated a preference for taking a third southpaw, which could create an opportunity for Colt Hynes or Jeff Francis.

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Delabar’s demotion seemingly creates an opportunity for Roberto Osuna, who continues impressing alongside fellow 20-year-old right-hander Miguel Castro despite a lack of experience against advanced competition. Right-handers Todd Redmond and Marco Estrada have starting experience, but both are presently lined up for bullpen roles.

Because Delabar has a minor league option remaining, the Blue Jays can send him to triple-A without exposing him to waivers.

The Blue Jays also reassigned outfielder Ezequiel Carrera to minor league camp Thursday, which leaves 39 players in big league camp.