[3] Purcey made his major league debut on April 18, 2008, starting against the Detroit Tigers and allowing one earned run over 4+1⁄3 innings.

On August 27, 2008, Purcey started against the Tampa Bay Rays and pitched his first career major league complete game.

On May 24, 2010, Purcey was recalled by Toronto and moved to the bullpen as a relief pitcher after Dana Eveland was designated for assignment.

On April 18, 2011, Purcey was traded to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for minor league relief pitcher Danny Farquhar.

[13] Purcey spent the year with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, going 1–4 with a 4.37 ERA in 47 games (one start) while striking out 63 in 57.2 innings pitched.

On July 3, 2013, his contract was purchased by the White Sox to replace Jesse Crain who was placed on the disabled list.

[16] While with the White Sox, Purcey suffered a strained ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow during the last week of the 2013 season.

[18] The White Sox re–signed Purcey to a minor league contract that included an invitation to spring training on November 8, 2013.