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2h ago

Blue Jays Intrasquad Games Point to ALDS Rotation Without Early Scherzer

A 70-pitch tune-up for Max Scherzer signals he is unlikely to open the series.

Image
Sep 18, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws a pitch against the Tampa Bay Rays in the first inning at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The AL’s top seed used bye-week intrasquad games at Rogers Centre, drawing roughly 7,500 fans, to gather final intel before the ALDS.
  • Max Scherzer logged five innings and about 70 pitches, a workload reporters say rules out a Game 1 or 2 start and could even put his ALDS roster spot in question.
  • Chris Bassitt, on the IL since Sept. 20 with lower-back inflammation, threw in the exhibition and struck out Vladimir Guerrero Jr., indicating progress toward possible activation.
  • Rookie Trey Yesavage is being discussed as a rotation option behind Kevin Gausman and Shane Bieber, with reporters advocating for his inclusion while official decisions remain unannounced.
  • Shortstop Bo Bichette’s knee issue still lacks a running milestone, leaving his near-term availability uncertain as Toronto awaits the Yankees–Red Sox winner.