The Toronto Blue Jays announced Monday that veteran pitcher Max Scherzer has been placed on the 15-day injured list with right forearm tendinitis and left ankle inflammation. The move comes after the 41-year-old struggled in his latest start, lasting only 2.1 innings against the Cleveland Guardians on Friday while allowing seven runs, including three home runs.
Scherzer's Recent Struggles
In his past two outings, Scherzer managed just one strikeout as he has desperately tried to regain his form. Following Friday's game, Scherzer insisted he was physically fine, stating, "I would not characterize the start as a fault of my forearm." Despite his comments, the team decided to place him on the IL to address the issues.
Scherzer's ERA has ballooned to 9.64 through 18.2 innings pitched this season, with only 10 strikeouts. He had been scheduled to start Wednesday's series finale against the Boston Red Sox.
Rotation Carousel Continues
The Blue Jays' pitching rotation has been a revolving door. Replacing Scherzer on the roster is right-handed reliever Chase Lee, recalled from triple-A Buffalo and active for Monday's game. Rookie Trey Yesavage, last year's sensation whose spring training was hampered by a shoulder impingement, is set to make his 2026 debut on Tuesday.
Veteran Jose Berrios could be ready within a week, while injured starter Shane Bieber remains weeks away from returning. The Blue Jays continue to navigate a challenging season with their pitching staff facing ongoing setbacks.
