The Toronto Blue Jays are finding their rhythm as the 2025 season progresses. In their latest outing on May 1, they secured a 4-2 victory over the Boston Red Sox, thanks to a pivotal three-run homer by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the eighth inning. Daulton Varsho also contributed with a solo shot, while starter José Berríos delivered a solid performance, allowing two runs over 6.2 innings with eight strikeouts. This win marked the Blue Jays' second consecutive victory, bringing their record to 15-16 and placing them third in the AL East standings.
Amidst this upswing, the team received encouraging news regarding veteran pitcher Max Scherzer. Acquired during the offseason to bolster Toronto's rotation, Scherzer's season debut was cut short due to right thumb inflammation, leading to his placement on the 15-day injured list on March 30. Since then, he has been undergoing rehabilitation, including receiving cortisone injections to alleviate the inflammation.
On Friday, Blue Jays manager John Schneider provided an update, stating that Scherzer threw a "heavy bullpen" session, indicating significant progress in his recovery. The next step involves facing live hitters before commencing a rehab assignment, suggesting that Scherzer is nearing a return to the mound. Scherzer's return would be a substantial boost for the Blue Jays, who have faced challenges with pitching depth early in the season. His experience and skill set are expected to enhance the rotation's stability and performance.
As Toronto begins its series against the Cleveland Guardians, the team remains optimistic that Scherzer's comeback will coincide with their push towards a winning record and playoff contention. The Blue Jays are exploring free agency and trade options to bolster their pitching rotation due to injuries. The absence of a key veteran, presumably Scherzer, leaves a void in the starting rotation.
Looking ahead to a critical game at Rogers Centre, the Blue Jays are preparing to face off against the Cleveland Guardians. Veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, with his impressive 2-2 record and a 2.62 ERA, is set to anchor the rotation, offering stability in challenging circumstances. In contrast, Cleveland will rely on left-hander Logan Allen, who has shown developing potential despite early struggles. This upcoming matchup promises to be a litmus test for both teams, with every pitch potentially altering the course of their seasons.
Despite Max Scherzer's progress, the Guardians series appears to be a stretch. The 39-year-old has been sidelined since March 30, when he exited his lone start against Baltimore after three innings due to thumb discomfort. General manager Ross Atkins acknowledged the urgency to address the rotation gap but emphasized prudence: "We need to see more consistency [from internal options]… (Scherzer’s) next week and a half will be very telling."
With Max Scherzer’s status uncertain, Toronto is exploring alternatives. Internal candidates like Easton Lucas and Jake Bloss have flashed potential, while Adam Macko nears a return from injury. On the external front, free agents Spencer Turnbull, Alex Wood, and Rich Hill are on the radar for depth. The team has had to rely on substitutes like Easton Lucas and Eric Lauer to cover for Scherzer's absence.
As the season progresses, the Blue Jays’ proactive stance in strengthening their pitching staff embodies a deeper philosophy of resilience and innovation. The blend of calculated risk-taking and measured preparation sets the stage for what could be a turning point in their campaign. With decisive actions today, the organization is laying the foundation for long-term success—a reminder that even in adversity, forward-thinking leadership can transform challenges into opportunities for a brighter future.
Max Scherzer, the Toronto Blue Jays' fifth starter, is recovering from a thumb injury that has sidelined him since his debut start in March. The three-time Cy Young Award winner was brought in to bolster the rotation but has been a notable absence, leaving the Jays scrambling for stability in their fifth starter role. Scherzer's frustration is palpable as he expressed, "I want to pitch… but I’ve got to zero out this thumb first." His $15.5 million deal hinges on durability, making his rehab a priority for both personal and team success.
As the Blue Jays prepare for their series against the Guardians, the anticipation surrounding Scherzer's potential return continues to build. While the team remains optimistic about his recovery, they must also navigate the immediate challenges posed by the current state of their pitching staff. The upcoming games will not only test the depth of the roster but also serve as a crucial juncture in the Blue Jays' quest for playoff contention.
