Scherzer Joins Blue Jays Rotation, Buying Time for Healing

0:00From Toronto Blue Jays coverage, this is your March 20th update. Max Sherzer will kick off the 2026 season in the Toronto Blue Jays starting rotation. The team didn't plan it this way, but with injuries hitting their young arms, they're turning to the veteran ace. Sherzer, a surefire future Hall of Famer, isn't hanging up his cleats yet and still brings real value to the mound. The opening came from Jet Yesavage's injury, a talented prospect the Jays want to protect. They're wisely taking it slow with his recovery rather than rushing him back. Having Sherzer step in gives them breathing room without weakening the staff early on. Fans and analysts see this as a smart move for depth. The Jays can't risk their future talent and Sherzer's presence mentors the roster while holding the line. It's a reminder of how injuries force tough choices in a long season. Last year, Sherzer made 17 starts over 85 innings with a 5.19 ERA. His expected ERA of 4.62 looked better and he nearly struck out a batter per inning.

1:04Home runs were a bit high at 2.01 per 9, but overall he proved he has plenty left. This set up buys time for healing and keeps the rotation steady as the Jays build toward contention.