The Toronto Blue Jays' starting pitcher, Max Scherzer, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to back spasms, retroactive to June 14th. This is the second time this season that Scherzer has been sidelined, having previously spent six weeks on the IL due to right forearm tendinitis and left ankle inflammation. The 41-year-old has struggled with injuries throughout his career, and this latest setback is a reminder of the challenges that come with age in professional sports.
Scherzer's performance this season has been suboptimal, to say the least. In six starts, he has only logged 22 innings, allowing 25 earned runs. His walk rate is above average and on pace to be the worst of his career, while his strikeout rate is well shy of average and also a career worst. These statistics are a stark contrast to his previous performances, which have been characterized by his exceptional pitching skills and longevity in the sport.
The Blue Jays have been dealing with a number of injuries to their starting pitchers this season. Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, José Berríos, Bowden Francis, and Cody Ponce have all spent time on the IL, and Scherzer's latest injury adds to the team's woes. As a result, the Jays have been forced to rely on their bullpen more frequently, and they have struggled to find a consistent starting rotation.
One potential solution to the team's pitching woes is Shane Bieber, who has been on a rehab assignment after spending the entire season on the IL due to elbow inflammation. Bieber made his fifth rehab start this afternoon for Triple-A Buffalo, throwing 80 pitches over five innings. While the results weren't great, the Jays may plug him into the big league rotation next time through, provided he responds well in the coming days. The team's ability to find a stable starting pitcher will be crucial to their success in the second half of the season.
The Blue Jays' situation highlights the challenges that come with managing a starting rotation in professional baseball. With so many injuries and a lack of depth, the team has been forced to rely on their bullpen and make do with the players they have. It remains to be seen whether they can find a solution to their pitching woes, but it will be a crucial factor in their ability to compete in the second half of the season.
