Blue Jays Facing Max Scherzer Decision After Trade News

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Blue Jays Facing Max Scherzer Decision After Trade News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jun 23, 2026 1:06 PM ET

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Max Scherzer is currently on the injured list dealing with back spasms, marking his second stint on the IL in 2026.

It is a story that has defined most of his two-year tenure in Toronto. He has simply not been able to stay healthy, and most of his value has come from the veteran presence he provides the clubhouse. Scherzer was re-signed this past winter on a one-year deal to stabilize the back of the starting rotation.

Even when on the field, though, he has not done that, posting a 10.23 ERA across six starts with just 14 strikeouts in 22 innings of work.

After Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins spoke with reporters and outlined the organization's plans for the trade deadline, time may already be running out for Scherzer in the rotation.

Atkins revealed that starting pitching sits at the top of the club's wish list. While he likes the current group, he does not see an issue with adding more talent (h/t Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet).

If the Blue Jays do add a starter, that could leave them with a big decision involving Scherzer and whether it is time to move him to the bullpen.

Even if Toronto does not acquire a starter, Scherzer's time in the rotation could already be over. Right-hander Shane Bieber is making his season debut Tuesday against the Houston Astros and now that he is healthy, he could step right into Scherzer's spot.

Speaking to media at Rogers Centre, Ross Atkins says starting pitching is likely atop Blue Jays’ wish list at the trade deadline. Atkins says he likes Jays’ current group but has interest in more because you can never have enough starters.
— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) June 23, 2026

However, if the Blue Jays do acquire an arm, especially an elite one that could slot next to Dylan Cease and Trey Yesavage at the top of the rotation, it may be worth sliding Scherzer to the bullpen and giving those arms more starts, as they give Toronto a better chance to win on a nightly basis.

Scherzer is one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation, a three-time Cy Young award winner, eight-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion.

However, he has spent over two decades in the big leagues, and he may no longer be worthy of the ball every six days, especially for a Blue Jays team with championship expectations.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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