After nearly three months sidelined, veteran ace Max Scherzer is set to reprise his role in the Toronto Blue Jays’ starting rotation — and the excitement is palpable. The 40‑year‑old right‑hander, a future Hall of Famer and three‑time Cy Young Award winner, has been cleared to return, making his first start of the season this Wednesday against the Cleveland Guardians.

When Scherzer inked a one-year, $15.5 million deal with Toronto in February, expectations were high. That optimism was backed by a dominant Spring Training stretch — he posted a very positive ratio over nine innings and entered camp with a sharp, blistering spring performance noted by analysts.

Yet, the thumb had other plans. In late March, during his debut against Baltimore, Scherzer lasted just three innings before exiting due to lat soreness tied to persistent thumb inflammation. This setback triggered his placement on the 15‑day injured list on March 30, later shifting to the 60‑day IL by early May.

A Timely Return

Throughout May, Scherzer’s rehab was methodical. He ramped up from bullpen sessions where he threw live to hitters to rehabilitation starts with Triple‑A Buffalo. On June 13, he threw 56 pitches over 4 1/3 innings, conceding two runs with four strikeouts — then followed it up with another rehab on June 18, notching 12 strikeouts and two earned runs over 8 2/3 innings.

By the time he topped out at 75 pitches in his latest rehab outing, Toronto’s coaching staff was satisfied — he had regained velocity, showed no grip issues with his thumb, and followed with a clean bullpen session.

“That’s Max Scherzer. I’ll take that any day of the week,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider. “He knows his stuff is where it should be. I’m really, really excited to have him back.”

Toronto currently battles in a crowded AL East, with division leaders such as the Yankees and Rays breathing down their necks. The Blue Jays also aim for a Wild Card berth, having rebounded from a dismal 74‑88 season in 2024. Scherzer’s return adds depth, stability, and playoff experience.

Also on the line is another milestone for Scherzer himself — just 93 strikeouts shy of 3,500 career K’s, which would rank him among MLB’s all‑time greats.

Looking Ahead for Toronto

His return couldn’t come sooner. Scherzer brings not just elite pitching — his career 3.16 ERA, 3,408 K’s across 18 seasons is emblematic — but also invaluable mentorship. Young arms like Bowden Francis have benefited from observing Scherzer’s preparation and approach

If Scherzer’s comeback is smooth, the Blue Jays will ease him into the rotation, possibly skipping starts around off‑days. His first challenge comes Wednesday, followed by a watchful eye on fatigue and grip. A series of successful outings would sound the alarm across the league — Toronto might just have their ace back.

Max Scherzer’s return isn’t just a boost to Toronto’s rotation — it’s a shot of confidence to the entire organization. His veteran savvy, frontline skill, and playoff pedigree elevate the team’s ceiling. As the regular season intensifies, expect Scherzer to anchor big moments and mentor the next wave of Blue Jays arms.

This Wednesday marks more than just a return — it could be the turning point of Toronto’s 2025 campaign. This may set them up for a stronger and even more competitive finish while recharging a promising run in their next set of games for the rest of the season.