The Toronto Blue Jays entered the season with questions about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s future. But right after the season started, the two sides reached a deal. Guerrero agreed to a 14-year, $500 million contract.
While fans waited longer than expected for that move, the Blue Jays made another big offseason signing, adding veteran pitcher Max Scherzer on a one-year, $15 million deal.
Unfortunately, Scherzer suffered a setback in spring training. He made his season debut but lasted just three innings in his first start before landing on the injured list. Now, there’s more bad news.
Blue Jays Fans Frustrated With Latest Max Scherzer Development
Scherzer took another step back on the injury front, according to Keegan Matheson of MLB.com.
“Scherzer (thumb) is still feeling soreness after throwing recently, John Schneider says. He’s going to visit with a doctor again in the coming days.” It’s not encouraging in any way for the veteran, and Blue Jays fans certainly aren’t thrilled.
“Not good,” one fan wrote.
“I honestly don’t expect him to pitch much at all this season. Was a terrible signing. Thankfully, so far, Lucas has pitched well,” said another.
“lol, he will never pitch again,” another stated.
“He’s done. Tough break, but with a 40 yr old you run the risk,” another wrote.
“$15 million for three innings,” another fan said.
MLB Network analyst and former All-Star Dan Plesac also pointed out how something like a thumb issue can be a big deal for a pitcher.
It isn’t only the fans who are frustrated, either. Scherzer was frustrated after initially landing on the IL.
“I’m frustrated. I want to pitch. I know I can pitch,” Scherzer said. “I know I can throw the ball really well. Unfortunately, I have an issue going on that’s coming from the thumb. I’ve got to address this. I’ve got to zero out that thumb before I pitch again.”
On April 7, Scherzer could throw, although he said he had “lingering tightness.”
It’s a concerning trend for the veteran, who turns 41 in July. Due to injuries, he pitched in just 17 games over the last two seasons for the Texas Rangers, so it’s not like the Blue Jays didn’t know what they were signing up for.
At this point, it remains to be seen when Max Scherzer can return to the mound for the Blue Jays, and fans aren’t thrilled about it.