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The Toronto Blue Jays may finally get one of their biggest stars back on the field very soon. Pitcher Max Scherzer, who is expected to be a future Hall of Famer, has been out since March 29. In his only game this season, he pitched just three innings before leaving with pain in his thumb.
Since then, Scherzer has been working hard to recover. According to Blue Jays reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith, things are going well. Scherzer recently threw 75 pitches in a rehab start, and while his thumb was sore, which was expected, he’s still on track. If everything goes smoothly, he could be back on the mound for the Blue Jays as early as next week in a game against the Cleveland Guardians.
Scherzer joined the Blue Jays on a one-year deal worth $15.5 million and was expected to be a key part of the team’s pitching rotation. His return would likely take the place of Bowden Francis, who is currently injured and hasn’t been performing well this season.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider said having someone like Scherzer back would be a big boost for the team. He called it “a nice shot in the arm,” meaning it would bring energy and confidence to the roster.
Scherzer himself is keeping calm and focused. After his last start in Triple-A, he said he won’t celebrate until he’s officially back in the major leagues and helping the Blue Jays win.
Scherzer is a three-time winner of the Cy Young Award, which goes to the best pitcher in the league. If he returns healthy and strong, it could make a big difference for Toronto’s season.