Spring training for the Toronto Blue Jays has been a rollercoaster, with injuries taking center stage, particularly among the starting rotation. The team's pitching depth was tested even before the first pitch of the season, as Shane Bieber was sidelined with elbow inflammation. Meanwhile, Bowden Francis faced a more daunting challenge, undergoing Tommy John surgery, which will keep him off the mound for all of 2026.
José Berrios and Trey Yesavage also found themselves on the injured list, grappling with an elbow stress fracture and shoulder impingement, respectively. Fortunately, the outlook for both is promising, with recent updates indicating progress. Berrios and Bieber are set to start throwing off mounds soon, a crucial step in their recovery.
General Manager Ross Atkins provided some encouraging news, confirming that both Bieber and Berrios are ready to take this important step. Trey Yesavage, on the other hand, has already shown promising signs in a simulated game, with his velocity returning to form.
Yesavage is actively working through his throwing program, and while there’s no set timeline for the trio's return, the hope is they’ll be back in action before April ends.
Rotation Reinforcements on the Horizon
Losing 60% of your starting rotation before Opening Day is a tough pill to swallow, but the Blue Jays were prepared. Max Scherzer, Cody Ponce, and Eric Lauer are stepping up to fill the gaps until the injured pitchers are ready to return.
Bieber’s road to recovery is expected to be the longest. Since he hasn’t ramped up for the season yet, his progress will be closely monitored. If all goes well with his mound sessions, he’ll likely head to the player development complex for a modified spring training, aiming for a rehab stint with Triple-A Buffalo in April.
Yesavage appears closest to making a comeback, having completed a successful simulated appearance. He’s set for a minor-league outing in Dunedin next week, and if all goes well, he could rejoin the rotation in a few weeks.
Berrios’ situation is a bit more complex. Despite a stress fracture diagnosis, he’s reported no pain, which is a positive sign. He’s already thrown a side session, indicating his return might align closely with Yesavage’s timeline, rather than Bieber’s extended recovery process.
While optimism is in the air, the Blue Jays remain cautious. Ensuring the pitchers’ health is paramount, and any setbacks will be handled with care. The season is young, and with the depth they've built, the Blue Jays are well-equipped to navigate these early challenges.