The Toronto Blue Jays may see two key players return to the lineup this weekend as catcher Alejandro Kirk and pitcher Shane Bieber continue their rehab assignments with the triple-A Buffalo Bisons.
Kirk's Potential Return
According to Sportsnet, Kirk hinted at his imminent return after Thursday night's game against the Syracuse Mets. 'I think I’m going to catch (Friday),' Kirk said. 'I don’t know if I’m allowed to say that.' Serving as the designated hitter, Kirk went 1-for-3 with a walk. Over six rehab games, he has two hits, including a home run, and three walks in 18 at-bats.
If Kirk rejoins the Blue Jays as early as Friday, the team will have three catchers on the roster. Tyler Heineman, who is hitting .154 this season, appears to be the most likely candidate to be sent down. Brandon Valenzuela has performed well, including a walk-off hit against the Philadelphia Phillies earlier this week. However, the Blue Jays may consider sending Valenzuela to Buffalo to ensure he gets consistent playing time.
Bieber's Strong Outing
Shane Bieber, who has missed the entire season due to right elbow inflammation, pitched six scoreless innings on just 62 pitches, striking out four batters. It remains uncertain if the Blue Jays will call him up after this start or give him one more rehab outing. Bieber would not need to be activated until early next week due to the rest required between starts.
Bieber returned from Tommy John surgery late last season and opened 2026 on the injured list. He surprised many by exercising his $16-million player option for this season, rather than becoming a free agent.
Rotation Changes
With Dylan Cease and Max Scherzer returning this week, the Blue Jays rotation is finally getting healthy. Kevin Gausman and Trey Yesavage are also in the mix, and Bieber's imminent return could push Patrick Corbin to the bullpen or off the roster. Corbin has a 2-3 record with a 4.55 ERA in 12 starts this season, providing valuable depth.
The Blue Jays face the New York Yankees this weekend, and the return of key players could not come at a better time.
