As MLB’s season opener approaches, teams are making final preparations, including the Toronto Blue Jays, who are bracing for a tough start. The Canadian team is already dealing with a challenging situation, as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has announced that he will not be playing for the Blue Jays next season. To add to their woes, another key player is facing an injury issue.
Spring training brings an inevitable risk of injury, especially to key players. While it’s a time for teams to fine-tune their lineups and plans, it also highlights the vulnerabilities of players who are essential to their squads.
The Blue Jays are the latest team to face a setback, following the New York Yankees’ difficulties with one of their starting pitchers. According to Sportsnet’s Andre Zwelling, Max Scherzer will not be available for Thursday’s game against the Baltimore Orioles. The veteran pitcher is dealing with a sore right thumb, which developed after his last outing on Saturday.
“Blue Jays are bumping Max Scherzer from his scheduled Thursday start due to a sore right thumb that developed after his last outing on Saturday. Manager John Schneider says the club is ‘just being extra careful with him’ and expects to know more about Scherzer’s status in the coming days,” Scherzer wrote on his social media.
Scherzer expected to be in Blue Jays’ opening day rotation
The Blue Jays are optimistic about their additions heading into the 2025 season, and Scherzer is still expected to be part of the starting rotation for their season opener. However, his inclusion will depend on the progress of his recovery from an injury, as well as how he responds following Saturday’s episode.
Reports suggest Scherzer will join Chris Bassitt, José Berríos, Kevin Gausman, and Bowden Francis in the starting rotation for the first game of the season against the Orioles at Rogers Centre, the Blue Jays’ home stadium.
Scherzer’s impressive 17-year career
At 40 years old and with 17 years of experience, Scherzer is poised to make a significant impact for the Blue Jays in 2025. After a difficult 2024 campaign, where he made only nine starts due to injury, the team is hoping for a healthier Scherzer this year. His leadership, coupled with his work ethic, will be invaluable in the clubhouse, providing a model for the team’s younger players.
Over his career, Scherzer boasts a 216-112 record with a 3.16 ERA. With his vast experience and commitment, he could be the key to helping the Blue Jays bounce back after their disappointing finish in the American League West standings last year.