UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have made a significant change to their pitching rotation ahead of their crucial series against the New York Yankees. In an urgent move announced just hours before game time, the team will start Chris Bassitt on Saturday and give Max Scherzer an extra day off, pushing his start to Sunday.
The decision comes after Scherzer, a 41-year-old three-time Cy Young Award winner, experienced back tightness during his last outing against the Milwaukee Brewers. “
Just wanted to give Max an extra day with the upper back thing feeling better. He threw a side yesterday,
” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider before Friday night’s opener against the Yankees.
Scherzer currently holds a record of 5-2 with a 4.11 ERA across 13 starts this season. However, since August 1, he has significantly improved, boasting a 4-1 record and a 3.36 ERA. His recent injury follows a previous stint on the injured list due to right thumb inflammation, which sidelined him from March 29 to June 25.
In a pivotal moment for the Blue Jays, who are vying for their first division title since 2015, they entered this series with a solid three-game lead over the Yankees in the AL East. This weekend’s games could be crucial in maintaining that lead.
Adding to the excitement, Schneider confirmed that outfielder Anthony Santander, who has been out since May 29 with a partially dislocated left shoulder, could begin a minor league rehab assignment as early as September 19. “
Tony’s here through the weekend ramping up right-handed,
” Schneider noted, indicating Santander’s potential return could bolster the team as they push for a playoff spot. Before his injury, Santander had signed a lucrative $92.5 million contract but was struggling at the plate, hitting just .179 with six home runs and 18 RBIs.
In further roster moves, the Blue Jays have recalled right-hander Braydon Fisher from Triple-A Buffalo and optioned right-hander Dillon Tate back to the Bisons.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on the performance of Bassitt and Scherzer, with fans eagerly anticipating their starts. The Blue Jays are determined to capitalize on their current momentum and secure their position in the playoff race. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.