The Toronto Blue Jays are closing in on a massive decision regarding their starting rotation
Photo credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck / Imagn Images
The Toronto Blue Jays have some intriguing challenges to navigate in the weeks ahead.
Known for building their identity around solid starting pitching, the team has struggles to maintain a complete rotation for most of the season.
Blue Jays face a difficult crossroad.
Adam Laskaris from DH Sports writes that help in the Blue Jays bullpen could be on the horizon, as both Max Scherzer and Alek Manoah are currently rehabbing after dealing with long-term injury setbacks.
"Scherzer managed just one start before a lengthy rehab process this season, while Manoah hasn't pitched at all in 2025 after a Tommy John surgery last summer. Scherzer made his second rehab start for Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, with the chance of returning to the big leagues next week. Meanwhile, Manoah is targeting an August return to the majors, and is currently working out at the team's training complex in Dunedin, Florida." -Laskaris
If the Blue Jays need to trip their rotation to five pitchers once Manoah and Scherzer are back, Francis appears to be the most likely candidate to be moved.
"Francis had a stretch last August during which, over four starts, he gave up just six hits and two earned runs while punching out 32 batters in 29 innings. He also set a new MLB record in those four starts, posting a WHIP of just 0.31. There's clearly a talented pitcher in his skill set, despite his current struggles." -Laskaris
Of course, there's always the possibility that either Manoah or Scherzer could suffer another setback or face difficulties adjusting to major league competition after such a long layoff.
"If two of Scherzer, Manoah, and Francis put together a decent back half of the season, Toronto could have a much improved pitching staff as they make a playoff push." -Laskaris
In any scenario, the Blue Jays will have plenty to sort out as they determine how their starting rotation will shape up for the second half of the season.
Previously on Blue Jays Insider
| POLL | ||
JUIN 20 | 1824 ANSWERS The Toronto Blue Jays are closing in on a massive decision regarding their starting rotation Who are you most looking forward to in their return with their Blue Jays? | ||
| Max Scherzer | 1067 | 58.5 % |
| Alek Manoah | 757 | 41.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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