John Schneider provides unfortunate injury update on Shane Bieber
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Victor William
Feb 10, 2026 (7:10 PM)
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Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The news that Shane Bieber will miss Opening Day might sting, but it's the smartest move the Blue Jays could make.
John Schneider confirmed today that the veteran right-hander will begin the season on the injured list due to "right forearm fatigue."
While the words "forearm" and "pitcher" usually induce panic, the context here is crucial.
Blue Jays plan for Shane Bieber to open the season on the injured list.
He’s dealing with right forearm fatigue and his ramp-up will be delayed past opening day. He's feeling good per John Schneider and playing catch, but won't start the season on time. Described as week to week
He’s dealing with right forearm fatigue and his ramp-up will be delayed past opening day. He's feeling good per John Schneider and playing catch, but won't start the season on time. Described as week to week
Bieber (Drafted 4th Round, 2016 by Cleveland) is coming off a major surgery and a shortened 2025 season, so a delayed ramp-up is practically standard procedure.
The fact that he is reportedly "feeling good" and already playing catch suggests this is about preservation, not a setback.
Schneider described the situation as "week to week," which is code for "we are not taking any risks in March."
This team didn't acquire Bieber to win games in April; they got him to be a horse in October.
Patience now means dominance later
Rushing a pitcher of his caliber back for the first week of the season would be malpractice.
We have the depth to weather this storm, thanks to the emergence of guys like Bowden Francis (before his own injury news) and the solid spring from Cody Ponce.
This "slow play" approach allows Bieber to build his arm strength without the pressure of regular-season innings.
It also gives a chance for a younger arm to step up and prove they belong in the big leagues.
If Bieber joins the rotation in late April or early May at 100%, nobody will remember he missed the opener.
But if they rushed him and he blew out his elbow again? That would be unforgivable.
Trust the process, trust the medical staff, and keep your eyes on the long game.
The goal is a parade, not an Opening Day roster that looks perfect on paper.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
John Schneider announces starting pitcher set to miss the entire 2026 season with Tommy John Surgery
John Schneider announces starting pitcher set to miss the entire 2026 season with Tommy John Surgery
Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider
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