Blue Jays Facing Decision After Max Scherzer News

In light of the news that Scherzer could be returning to Toronto, the team faces a difficult decision. With Cease, Bieber, Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage and Cody Ponce the projected five-man rotation for the Blue Jays, Scherzer's potential fit is unclear. This is especially the case when factoring in left-handed pitcher Eric Lauer, who got the Spring Training start against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday.

Speaking with reporters after one scoreless inning, Lauer was candid about his desire to be a starter after finishing last season in the bullpen.

"The whole bouncing back and forth thing last year kind of kind of hurt me in the long run, not physically, but, you know, my standing," he said via Mitch Bannon of The Athletic. "So l'd really like to perform and kind of do what I did last year, show that I can start and hopefully maintain starting. The fact that I ended last year in the bullpen was probably what lost me my (arbitration) case."

Lauer appeared in 28 games (15 starts) last season, posting a 3.18 ERA in 104.2 innings pitched. While he has value as a left-handed relief option, his desire to start leaves the Blue Jays with a decision to make — especially if Scherzer returns for his 19th season.

Injuries limited Scherzer to 17 starts and 85 innings pitched last season. His 5.19 ERA was a career-worst, but this dropped to 3.77 in three postseason starts which proved valuable for Toronto in its AL Pennant run. As an eight-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Scherzer brings experience and pedigree that Lauer does not. But the latter was more effective last season, and there may not be room for both in the 2026 rotation.

This is a decision Toronto will have to make during Spring Training. Does it make sense to bring Scherzer back as a sixth starter? Or does Lauer get his wish and return to the rotation after a hybrid role last season?