The Toronto Blue Jays suffered a narrow 5-4 defeat to the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday, losing the rubber match of their three-game series at Rogers Centre. Despite a promising start, the Blue Jays’ bullpen faltered in the later innings, allowing the Guardians to capitalize and secure the win. Toronto’s offense showed flashes of potential, with Andrés Giménez contributing two hits and two RBIs, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.
A significant factor in the Blue Jays’ recent struggles has been the absence of veteran pitcher Max Scherzer. Scherzer, who signed a one-year, $15 million deal with Toronto in the offseason, has been sidelined since March 29 due to right thumb inflammation. His experience and leadership on the mound have been sorely missed, especially during tight games where bullpen depth is tested.
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31).Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The news on Scherzer got worse on Monday. The Blue Jays announced he is being transferred to the 60-day injured list.
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In response to their pitching challenges, the Blue Jays announced major-league deals with right-handers Spencer Turnbull and José Ureña. Turnbull has been optioned to the Florida Complex League (FCL) Blue Jays to begin ramping up, while Ureña is expected to join the major league roster immediately.
The move to place Scherzer on the 60-day IL means he won’t be eligible to return until May 29 at the earliest. Given the need for a proper ramp-up period, his return could be delayed further, potentially impacting the Blue Jays’ rotation depth in the coming weeks.
As the Blue Jays prepare to face the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, they aim to rebound from their recent losses and improve upon their 16-18 record. The upcoming series presents an opportunity for Toronto to regain momentum and climb the standings in the competitive American League East.
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Related: Blue Jays’ John Schneider Announces Daulton Varsho News After Loss to Guardians
Related: Blue Jays’ John Schneider Announces Major Max Scherzer News on Friday