Well before the first pitch of the three-game series against the visiting Philadelphia Phillies, the Toronto Blue Jays were making headlines. For the first time in a while, the news was positive—unless you were Yariel Rodriguez, whom the club designated for assignment.
Tommy Nance has been reinstated, marking one of several encouraging developments. But the best news involves two-time all-star catcher Alejandro Kirk, who fractured the thumb on his glove hand back in April.
Kirk could return Friday
According to manager John Schneider, Kirk might rejoin the big-league club as early as Friday when the New York Yankees visit for the first time since last fall's American League Division Series. One of the biggest weaknesses hindering the reigning AL champions from achieving consistency has been the lineup. Kirk's imminent return won't solve everything, but his presence in the middle of the order will certainly help.
Once activated, the Blue Jays will need to make a corresponding move. Brandon Valenzuela should not be the odd man out; the rookie has been a revelation, hitting his seventh home run in Sunday's win over the Orioles, moving him into second place on the team's home run list. That leaves Tyler Heineman as the likely roster casualty.
Pitching updates and other moves
Schneider also announced that Dylan Cease will start Tuesday, and Max Scherzer will take the mound in Wednesday's series finale. Thursday is an off day for the Blue Jays, but additional moves could be announced before the Yankees—without Aaron Judge—arrive for the weekend series. Bullpen days might become a thing of the past, as Shane Bieber is scheduled to pitch a side session at Rogers Centre before starting for triple-A Buffalo on Thursday.
Additionally, Trey Yesavage's next start has been pushed back to Friday. Yesavage has struggled in his last two outings, both against Baltimore. Spencer Miles will return to a mixed relief role, per Schneider.
