Demoted Accardo puzzled

After pitching poorly in spring training, 51s closer Jeremy Accardo understood the Toronto Blue Jays' decision to send him to Triple-A to start this season.

But Accardo still is baffled as to why Toronto optioned him to Las Vegas on Aug. 14 after he compiled a 2.50 ERA and had 14 strikeouts in 18 innings for the Blue Jays since they called him up June 18.

"There's really no rhyme or reason to some of the decisions that are made, and that's out of your hands as a player," Accardo said Saturday before the 51s' x-x win/loss over/to Reno at Cashman Field. "All you can do is pitch, and pretty much this whole year I've thrown well. I feel better than I ever have, and my stuff is as good as it's ever been."

Accardo, 27, allowed only one earned run in 9 2/3 innings over his last 10 outings for Toronto, earning a hold against the New York Yankees on Aug. 11 in his last appearance with the Blue Jays.

When he was sent down to Las Vegas three days later, a surprised Accardo said no one told him why.

"They usually do, but this time they didn't. There was no real reason," he said. "It's just one of those things you've got to deal with. You could be bitter if you want, but it's not going to help you. You can't think too much about it, or you'll drive yourself crazy."

Accardo compiled 30 saves and a 2.14 ERA for Toronto in 2007, when he filled in for former Blue Jays closer B.J. Ryan, but he battled injuries last season, when he went 0-3 with a 6.57 ERA.

He scattered 15 hits in 19 games for Toronto this season and issued 11 walks, but he said his control isn't an issue.

"I've never been someone who struggles with his command," he said. "I was hitting my spots and pitching well in games that were meaningful."

Accardo is 2-1 with a 3.21 ERA and 11 saves this season for the 51s, with seven walks and 25 strikeouts in 28 innings.

"He's been outstanding," 51s pitching coach Dave LaRoche said. "He doesn't belong here. He's better than this league."

Accardo said the Blue Jays told him he'd be going back up in September, when major league rosters expand from 25 to 40 players.

"They told me I was, but nothing surprises me," he said. "If they don't, they don't. Hopefully that means I'll be with another squad next year."

• NOTES -- First baseman Randy Ruiz was named the 51s' Most Valuable Player, as chosen by the Las Vegas coaching staff, and he also received the team's Mayor's Trophy, for the MVP as voted by the fans. Also, right-hander T.J. Beam was named the team's Most Valuable Pitcher, and reliever Bubbie Buzachero received the squad's Community Service Award.

Contact reporter Todd Dewey at tdewey@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0354.