Injury-battered Blue Jays facing another potential loss

The Toronto Blue Jays have been ravaged by injuries thus far in 2026. The last thing they need is to have another player sidelined for any length of time.

That may be the case. Keegan Matheson from MLB.com reported that Max Scherzer was removed from Monday's game after two innings and 36 pitches. There are no updates as to why Scherzer was removed at this point; however, most of the roster has been battling the flu, which could be why Scherzer left early.

The injury bug has feasted on the Blue Jays in the early going. Pitchers Cody Ponce, Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage and Jose Berrios are already on the Injured List. Catcher Alejandro Kirk and outfielder Anthony Santander may be joined on the IL by infielder Addison Barger. The Blue Jays depth is being tested early.

Toronto Blue Jays need Max Scherzer back as soon as possible

Scherzer had a roller coaster of a year with the Blue Jays in 2025. He posted a 5.19 ERA and a 1.294 WHiP over his 85 innings, striking out 82 batters with 23 walks. Scherzer was better in the postseason, allowing six runs on 12 hits and six walks over his 14.1 innings, striking out 11 batters.

He had a strong first start in 2026, allowing one run on four hits and a walk over six innings with four strikeouts. His ability to pitch deep into games was even more crucial given the Blue Jays' decimated rotation. The Blue Jays cannot afford to lose Scherzer for an extended period.