DUNEDIN, Fla. — Max Scherzer was already in uniform Monday at the Blue Jays’ player development facility, throwing a bullpen session in his familiar No. 31 jersey before his contract was even finalized. The 41-year-old ace could soon make his Grapefruit League debut, as the Blue Jays are considering having him start Saturday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies. Manager John Schneider described the moment, saying,
“It’s nice to have him back. Not only watching him throw — which looked really good — but just catching up with him, really. You guys all know the character that he is and it’s nice to get him back around some new faces and awesome to see him.”
Scherzer is scheduled for another bullpen session Wednesday, but since he has been pitching to free agent hitters already, his first game appearance could be as early as this weekend. The Blue Jays’ pitching plans leading up to Saturday include Kevin Gausman starting Tuesday, Dylan Cease on Thursday, and a tandem of Jose Berrios and Eric Lauer pitching Friday.
Davis Schneider Steps Up as Blue Jays’ Union Representative
On Monday, the Blue Jays officially named Davis Schneider as their acting union representative, taking over a role previously held by Chris Bassitt. Earlier in spring training, Daulton Varsho served in this capacity, but Schneider will now lead union responsibilities with backing from teammates George Springer, Tyler Heineman, Max Scherzer, and Varsho. Schneider emphasized the importance of unity, stating,
“We’re a union, so everyone’s voice matters. Making sure everyone’s on the same page, talking to other teams, talking to other reps and discussing what everyone else is thinking.”
This role is especially critical as Major League Baseball’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) nears expiration on December 1. On Monday morning, union leader Bruce Meyer met with the Blue Jays players and MLBPA executives, along with former pitchers Kevin Slowey and Andrew Miller, answering questions for roughly 90 minutes. Having been in the minor leagues during the previous CBA expiration, Schneider acknowledges this is unfamiliar territory but plans to maintain frequent communication with veteran players throughout the season.
Schneider remarked,
“It’s not just me. Having Max back is big, being friends with (Chris) Bassitt, I can just text him and what he’s thinking. You’re also boys with everyone around the league, so no one’s afraid to talk to each other.”
Union Challenges Ahead as MLB Eyes Salary Cap
Players across the league are preparing for the possibility of a lockout, as MLB is expected to propose a salary cap during upcoming negotiations — a plan the MLBPA has consistently opposed. As the Blue Jays navigate these uncertain times, having engaged union representatives like Davis Schneider is crucial for keeping players informed and united.
