The Toronto Blue Jays optioned shortstop Russ Adams to Class AAA Syracuse following Wednesday's 10-8 loss to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

The former Auburn Doubleday has struggled at the plate and in the field all season. He's batting .258 with two home runs and 16 RBIs. Adams has also committed 10 errors - second most among American League shortstops. The 25-year-old and 2002 first-round draft pick hit .256 with eight homers and 63 RBIs last season.

Pitcher Josh Towers was also sent to Syracuse along with Adams.

Defensive specialist John McDonald is expected to replace Adams in the Blue Jays' lineup.

Adams spent only half of the 2002 season in a Doubledays' uniform. He hit .354 and was called up to Class AA mid-season. He was called up to Toronto in 2004 for 22 games.