Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider says veteran right-hander Max Scherzer will come off the injured list and pitch Monday in the series opener at Washington, coinciding with his 42nd birthday. Schneider made the announcement after the Blue Jays’ 6-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Sunday, saying, “Max is going to pitch (Monday).” He adds that the team’s decision follows conversations with Scherzer about how he is feeling physically and how he has progressed after a rehab appearance in Triple-A Buffalo.
Scherzer was placed on the injured list in mid-June due to back spasms. Multiple sources indicate he has encountered setbacks during his recovery. Ahead of his return, Monday’s start is expected to be only the seventh appearance of the season for Scherzer. The return is therefore positioned as a key step for the Blue Jays as they resume their schedule following his time on the IL and recovery period.
