Blue Jays face pitching decisions with Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber injury updates

By Ethan Gagnon — 11 July 2026 — 3 min read

Pitching Staff Challenges

The Toronto Blue Jays are navigating significant decisions regarding their pitching rotation, particularly concerning veteran right-handers Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber. Both pitchers have faced challenges this season, prompting discussions about their roles as the team approaches the All-Star Break.

Scherzer, who began the 2026 MLB season healthy, experienced a forearm strain on April 25. After a period of recovery, he rejoined the team only to be placed on the injured list again on June 14 due to back spasms. Scherzer, who will be 42 soon, has made six starts this year, pitching a total of 22 innings. His performance includes a 1-4 record, a 10.23 ERA, 14 strikeouts, and 11 walks.

As he works back from the back spasms, Scherzer has completed two minor league rehab starts, pitching for High-A Vancouver and Triple-A Buffalo. Reports indicate that he might rejoin the major league club immediately following the All-Star Break. His next steps include a bullpen session in Toronto on Saturday, followed by another rehab start with the Blue Jays FCL team in Florida on Tuesday. The start after that could potentially be in the majors.

Shane Bieber, another right-hander, has also had a difficult season after returning from elbow issues. In three starts, Bieber has pitched 13 innings, recording an 0-1 record with a 9.00 ERA. During these outings, he has struck out nine batters, walked seven, and allowed six home runs. Batters have hit .351/.422/.737 against him. His fastball velocity is reportedly in the 15th percentile, and his average exit velocity is around the 5th percentile.

Rotation Considerations

The potential return of Scherzer to the active roster would present the Blue Jays with a personnel decision, as it could result in six starting pitchers. This situation might lead to one of the current starters being moved to the bullpen. Given their recent struggles, both Bieber and Scherzer could be candidates for such a move, especially if the team opts against a six-man rotation. The trade of Tommy Nance has created some open slots in the bullpen, which could accommodate a long relief arm alongside lefty Patrick Corbin.

Another pitcher who could be affected by these decisions is right-hander Chad Dallas, who has been moving between the major league club and Triple-A throughout the year. The team’s current record stands at 44-49, placing them 11 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East. The Blue Jays are scheduled to play a weekend series against the San Diego Padres before the upcoming All-Star Break.

Despite the challenges faced by both Scherzer and Bieber, the Blue Jays appear to remain committed to them. The team has been operating with four starters and a bullpen day, indicating the existing need for pitching depth. However, the front office is reportedly looking to acquire another starter before the trade deadline, suggesting that current pitching resources may not be sufficient. The team is also second last in the league in runs per game, which further highlights the need for strong pitching performances.

All-Star Selections and Team Performance

The American League All-Star team selections have been announced, with several Blue Jays players named. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was selected as the starting first baseman, and Ernie Clement was named the starting second baseman. Dylan Cease and Louis Varland were also selected as pitchers for the American League. Guerrero Jr. has reportedly pulled out of the All-Star Game.

The team’s overall performance has been a concern, with starting pitching identified as a potential ongoing issue. Other pitchers in the organization, such as Jake Bloss, who has a 14.29 ERA in three starts for Buffalo, and Ricky Tiedemann, who was scratched from a rehab game due to a “neck issue” after pitching one inning, also face their own challenges. These factors contribute to the complex decisions the Blue Jays must make regarding their pitching staff as the season progresses.

The Blue Jays will play a weekend series at the San Diego Padres as their last before the upcoming All-Star Break.