Blue Jays delay rotation decision as Bieber nears return for series with Pirates
The Toronto Blue Jays will hold off on finalizing their starting rotation for at least one more series, sticking with their current five-man order through the upcoming three-game set against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kevin Gausman, Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt are slated to start in the three-game run at PNC Park.
With Shane Bieber now healthy and ready for his Blue Jays debut this season, Toronto will face a choice: move to a six-man rotation or elevate one of its current starters to a reliever role. However, there isn’t an obvious bullpen candidate when considering both pedigree and performance.
Bieber was acquired from the Cleveland Guardians at the trade deadline in exchange for prospect Khal Stephen. After undergoing Tommy John surgery, he has been out since April 2024 but has logged a third strong start at Triple-A Buffalo this past Friday and appears ready to return to the majors.
The Jays’ series against the Pirates runs Monday through Wednesday at PNC Park, with live coverage available on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
Additional context and outlook:
– Bieber’s arrival gives Toronto additional depth and a potential stabilizing force in the rotation as the season progresses.
– A six-man rotation could help manage Bieber’s workload early in his return, reduce strain on the bullpen, and keep rest days aligned for the pitching staff.
– There’s no clear candidate to shift to the bullpen based on the current mix of experience and performance, which is why Toronto is weighing the options carefully.
Summary: Toronto is extending the wait on definitive rotation changes as Bieber edges closer to a major league return, keeping the current trio of Gausman, Scherzer and Bassitt on the mound for the Pirates series while evaluating whether to add a sixth starter or shuffle roles in the bullpen.
Positive note: Bieber’s healthy return and the depth of Toronto’s rotation could strengthen the pitching staff as the season unfolds, offering flexibility and optimism for the team’s mound work ahead.