Blue Jays pitcher Jose Berrios is facing surgery on Wednesday for a stress fracture in his right elbow. Manager John Schneider shared this news with reporters, noting that Dr. Keith Meister will handle the operation. There’s a chance this surgery could be more complex due to potential ligament issues, making it hard to predict how long Berrios will be out or if he’ll pitch in 2026 at all.
Berrios has faced injuries for the past nine months, which is surprising for a player known for his consistency. He was sidelined last season with elbow inflammation, missing the postseason. Just as he was about to play for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, tests confirmed more inflammation and the stress fracture.
Initially, he was placed on the 15-day injured list (IL) to start the season. Despite some progress, discomfort returned during his rehab, leading to further assessments, including an MRI that raised concerns about loose bodies in his elbow.
If the surgery reveals just loose bodies, there is a slim hope he may return for the second half of the 2026 season. However, if ligament damage is found, it could mean a longer recovery. Some procedures could allow him back by mid-2027, but others, like Tommy John surgery, might sideline him for 13-15 months.
Berrios has a contract with an opt-out clause, allowing him to leave the remaining two years and $48 million on his contract. Given his current situation, it’s unlikely he will opt out and instead will likely stay with the team.
Berrios’s injury is another blow for a Toronto rotation already dealing with troubles. Veterans Shane Bieber and Max Scherzer are in recovery but are still weeks away from joining the team. Other pitchers, including Cody Ponce and Bowden Francis, have already faced season-ending injuries.
Currently, the only dependable arms in the rotation seem to be Kevin Gausman and Dylan Cease. The team might need to look for additional pitching help. A potential option is Spencer Miles, who has been effective in relief and could be stretched into a starter role.
In the bullpen, Adam Macko is on standby in Detroit. There’s a chance he might join the roster soon, depending on the status of other relievers.
This situation highlights the pressures teams face in maintaining healthy rosters. Injuries can drastically alter a team’s dynamics, forcing decisions that impact both present performance and future strategy. As the Blue Jays navigate these challenges, their ability to adapt will be crucial for the remainder of the season.
For more information on player injuries and recovery timelines, you can check resources like MLB Injury Tracker.
Source link
adam macko,jose berrios
