The Toronto Blue Jays received devastating news this week as starting pitcher Jose Berrios underwent Tommy John surgery, a procedure that will sideline him for the remainder of the 2026 season and likely into 2027. The surgery was performed after doctors discovered significant tendon damage in his elbow.
A Season of Setbacks
Berrios began the season on the disabled list with what was initially diagnosed as a stress fracture. However, complications arose when loose bodies in his elbow began affecting the tendon, leading to the need for surgical intervention. Manager John Schneider confirmed the news on Wednesday, adding to the team's growing injury woes.
The Blue Jays now face a severe shortage in their starting rotation. With Berrios out, the team has lost three key pitchers to long-term injuries: Cody Ponce (torn ACL), Bowden Francis (60-day IL, elbow), and now Berrios. Additionally, veteran Max Scherzer has dealt with nagging injuries, and Shane Bieber has yet to make his 2026 debut due to elbow issues.
Rotation in Crisis
Without Berrios, the Blue Jays are struggling to field a five-man rotation. Thursday's game featured a bullpen start, highlighting the depth of the problem. The team had hoped to rely on a deep pool of starters, but injuries have decimated those plans.
Patrick Corbin, signed as a temporary solution, has performed admirably with a 4.23 ERA in eight starts, but he is now the No. 4 starter. The team currently has no reliable fifth starter, and options are dwindling. Eric Lauer, once considered a candidate, was traded to the Dodgers after a public rift with management, with the Jays even covering part of his salary to facilitate the deal.
Berrios' Durability
The injury is especially surprising given Berrios' reputation for durability. Over 10 major league seasons, he averaged 27.5 starts per year, amassing 1,571 2/3 innings. His consistency was a hallmark of his career, first with the Minnesota Twins and then for five seasons in Toronto.
Berrios is in the second year of a five-year contract signed in 2024. He is owed nearly $50 million combined for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. The surgery raises questions about his long-term effectiveness, but the team remains hopeful he will return to form.
Glimmer of Hope
Despite the bleak outlook, there is some positive news. Both Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber are progressing well in their recoveries. If they can return to full health, the Blue Jays may yet salvage some stability in their rotation.
The Blue Jays will need to rely on internal options and potential trades to fill the void left by Berrios. For now, the team must navigate a grueling season with a depleted pitching staff.
