Home / Sports / Shane Bieber Nears Blue Jays Comeback
Shane Bieber Nears Blue Jays Comeback
21 Jun
Summary
- Shane Bieber is close to returning after nearly a full season on the injured list.
- The Blue Jays' rotation has been heavily impacted by injuries to key pitchers.
- Bieber's rehab appearances show increasing workload, suggesting a return is near.
The Toronto Blue Jays are poised to welcome back former Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber, who has been on the injured list for nearly the entire 2026 season. This return comes at a critical time for a rotation that has been significantly hampered by injuries.
Injuries have plagued the Blue Jays' pitching staff, with only Kevin Gausman remaining healthy. Dylan Cease, Max Scherzer, and Trey Yesavage have all spent time on the injured list, forcing the team to rely on bullpen games and makeshift solutions. Bieber's potential return offers stability, aiming to restore a traditional five-man rotation.
Bieber has been out since late March due to right elbow inflammation. While his rehab numbers, including a 6.88 ERA over 17 innings, have not been stellar, his increasing workload in recent starts suggests he is nearing major league readiness. This development is crucial for Toronto's efforts to remain competitive.
Despite the optimism, questions linger due to Bieber's limited activity since Tommy John surgery in April 2024. He has only started nine regular-season games since then. His last significant workload was in 2023 with Cleveland, where he posted a 3.80 ERA but showed signs of decline. Nevertheless, a healthy Bieber is seen as a significant upgrade for the Blue Jays' pitching staff.
