URGENT UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have made a critical adjustment to their starting rotation just before their pivotal series against the New York Yankees. Manager John Schneider announced that Chris Bassitt will take the mound on Saturday, while Max Scherzer will start on Sunday. This change comes as Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, receives extra rest due to back tightness.
Scherzer, 41, exited his last outing against Milwaukee on August 27, raising concerns about his health. “Just wanted to give Max an extra day with the upper back thing feeling better,” Schneider stated before Friday night’s opener against the Yankees. Scherzer is currently 5-2 with a 4.11 ERA over 13 starts this season and has improved to 4-1 with a 3.36 ERA since August 1.
The Blue Jays are in a crucial position, seeking their first division title since 2015, and they entered this series with a three-game lead over the Yankees in the AL East standings.
In addition to the rotation changes, Schneider provided updates on outfielder Anthony Santander, who has been sidelined since May 29 due to a partially dislocated left shoulder. Schneider indicated that Santander could begin a minor league rehabilitation assignment as early as Tuesday with Buffalo. “Tony’s here through the weekend ramping up right-handed,” Schneider said. Before his injury, Santander had signed a $92.5 million, five-year contract but struggled, hitting just .179 with six home runs and 18 RBIs.
The Blue Jays have also made bullpen adjustments, recalling right-hander Braydon Fisher from Triple-A Buffalo while optioning right-hander Dillon Tate to the Bisons.
As the Blue Jays prepare to face their rivals, all eyes will be on Scherzer and how he performs following this extra day of rest. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the adjustments will pay off in the competitive playoff race.
Stay tuned for more updates as the series progresses and the Blue Jays aim to solidify their position in the postseason.
