The American League champions faced some tough news as Spring Training kicked off. Fans learned that Anthony Santander will miss most of the season due to shoulder surgery. On the pitching side, Shane Bieber also won’t start the season right away. Manager John Schneider shared that he’s going on the 15-day injured list after experiencing forearm fatigue last postseason.
Bieber’s situation is about being cautious. He had some elbow soreness last summer but managed to pitch in the playoffs. Now, he’s been throwing up to 90 feet but there’s no set date for his return. His recent performance included 59 innings during the regular season and playoffs combined, which is a solid amount.
With Bieber out, José Berríos now finds himself in the Opening Day rotation. Last year, he was frustrated about being dropped from the playoff roster, but now he’s back in the spotlight. The team’s starting five will include Berríos along with Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, Kevin Gausman, and Cody Ponce.
The situation isn’t as bright for Bowden Francis. He’s set for Tommy John surgery after last season’s struggles and a shoulder injury. This means he’ll likely spend the year on the injury list, which affects the team’s depth.
Toronto is also missing right-hander Jake Bloss, who is recovering from elbow surgery he had last May. If everyone stays healthy, lefty Eric Lauer could step into the rotation. However, the 40-man roster is short on experienced pitchers, meaning an additional injury could leave the team in a tight spot.
Interestingly, several mid-rotation starters are still available, including familiar names like Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer. Toronto’s payroll has climbed above $310 million, a franchise record, suggesting they might consider adding stable options if needed.
Overall, as the Jays gear up for the season, their pitching depth is a crucial talking point for fans and analysts alike. The team’s ability to navigate these injuries will be essential for their success in the months ahead.
For further insights, you can check up on statistics from ESPN or keep an eye on updates from MLB’s official site.
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