Max Scherzer Getting a Cortisone Shot and That's a Problem for Toronto's Rotation Right Now

The Blue Jays are dealing with some serious injury headaches in their pitching staff, and Max Scherzer is the latest casualty. The veteran right hander is getting a cortisone injection to manage inflammation in his right thumb, according to reports from May 11. This is exactly the kind of thing that can derail a rotation when you're already thin on reliable arms.

What's Happening With Scherzer

Scherzer's thumb issues are real enough that Toronto's medical staff felt a cortisone shot was necessary to keep him managing the pain. It's a short term fix, sure, but it also tells you that this isn't just something that's going to disappear on its own. When a guy like Scherzer, who has been around forever and knows how to pitch through things, needs an injection to stay functional, you have to pay attention.

The Bigger Picture: The Rotation Is Hurting

This isn't happening in a vacuum. The Blue Jays just designated Eric Lauer for assignment, pulling him from the rotation entirely after he struggled both on the mound and keeping his comments out of the media spotlight. Now the team is actively considering internal candidates to replace him in the rotation, with Spencer Miles among the options being looked at for that vacant fifth starter slot.

Yariel Rodriguez was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo to help shore things up, and the right hander struck out two in his return to the big leagues. But when you're making these kinds of moves and dealing with injuries to established guys like Scherzer, it's clear the rotation is stretched thin.

Elsewhere on the injury front, the situation isn't getting easier. Bieber is still working his way back, currently preparing to throw a one-inning live bullpen session. Barger is dealing with elbow joint inflammation, while Lukes is at least progressing toward a rehab assignment.

What's Next

Toronto hosts the Rays on May 12, looking to snap a two-game losing streak. The team needs to get healthy and get their pitching staff stabilized fast. Between Scherzer managing a thumb injury, the Lauer situation, and other guys still working their way back, this rotation needs some wins to build momentum while things settle down.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.