Max Scherzer will make his first spring start for the Toronto Blue Jays this Saturday against the Philadelphia Phillies, just over a week after finalizing his return to the team. Manager John Schneider confirmed the news on Friday, highlighting Scherzer’s quick involvement in the preseason schedule.
Blue Jays’ Weekend Pitching Plan Revealed
Following Jose Berrios’ scheduled start on Friday against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Blue Jays plan to use split-squad matchups on Sunday. Kevin Gausman is set to face the Detroit Tigers, while Cody Ponce will pitch against the Baltimore Orioles. These appearances reflect the team’s preparation as they evaluate their rotation options.
Injury Update for Ricky Tiedemann
Pitcher Ricky Tiedemann remains sidelined with elbow soreness, having not yet resumed throwing activities. An MRI showed no structural damage, suggesting a mild issue.
Hopefully in the next couple of days he should be back at it,
John Schneider said.
Scherzer’s Recent Performance and Preparation
Last season, Scherzer appeared in 17 games for the Blue Jays, pitching 85 innings and finishing with a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA while managing a thumb injury. He also made three playoff starts. This spring, the 41-year-old completed a bullpen session on Monday and worked with hitters on Wednesday to build readiness for the upcoming season.
Competition for Starting Rotation Spots
Scherzer is contending for a rotation role that includes Dylan Cease, Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage, Cody Ponce, Jose Berrios, and Eric Lauer. Shane Bieber’s inclusion remains uncertain as he continues to address arm fatigue, delaying his spring training activity.
Implications for the Blue Jays’ Season
By integrating Scherzer early in spring training, the Blue Jays aim to solidify their starting rotation as the regular season approaches. Keeping key pitchers like Scherzer and Berrios on track, alongside monitoring players such as Bieber and Tiedemann, will be crucial to Toronto’s pitching depth and overall performance in the coming months.
Blue Jays upcoming probable startersÂ
Fri Mar 6 vs PIT — Jose Berrios
Sat Mar 7 @ PHI — Max Scherzer
Sun Mar 8 vs DET (split squad) — Kevin Gausman
Sun Mar 8 @ BAL (split squad) — Cody Ponce— Arden Zwelling (@ArdenZwelling) March 6, 2026
Ricky Tiedemann hasn't resumed throwing yet after being shut down with left elbow soreness 10 days ago. He had an MRI at the time that didn't reveal any structural damage.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider: "Hopefully in the next couple of days he should be back at it."
— Arden Zwelling (@ArdenZwelling) March 6, 2026
