Blue Jays Prepare for Trey Yesavage's Return Amidst Injury Challenges

Trey Yesavage is set to make his final rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday, April 18, 2026, before rejoining the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager John Schneider emphasized the importance of this outing, stating that it is crucial for Yesavage to feel comfortable with a pitch count of 75, ensuring he is fully prepared for his return to the major leagues. Yesavage's previous outing saw him pitch 4.1 innings, allowing three earned runs while striking out five batters and inducing 12 whiffs, indicating a positive trajectory as he approaches his comeback.

Trey Yesavage to make final rehab start with Triple-A BuffaloJose Berrios' rehab start leaves brutal Blue Jays decision after Trey Yesavage return

The Blue Jays' starting rotation has faced significant challenges due to injuries. Cody Ponce is out for the season following ACL surgery, while Shane Bieber is still recovering from right elbow inflammation. Additionally, Max Scherzer has struggled with forearm tendinitis, carrying a 9.58 ERA into his fourth start of the season. Eric Lauer has also faced difficulties, battling illness and inconsistent performance. Patrick Corbin, who signed a $1 million contract earlier in April, has shown some promise but remains a question mark in the rotation's stability.

Trey Yesavage to make final rehab start with Triple-A BuffaloJose Berrios' rehab start leaves brutal Blue Jays decision after Trey Yesavage return

Yesavage's return will necessitate a decision regarding the current starting five, which includes Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Eric Lauer, Max Scherzer, and Patrick Corbin. Lauer appears to be the most likely candidate to move to the bullpen, given his previous success in that role and his current struggles. This shift would provide the Blue Jays with an additional left-handed option in the bullpen, which could be beneficial as they navigate the ongoing injury crisis.

Jose Berrios' rehab start leaves brutal Blue Jays decision after Trey Yesavage return

José Berríos is also on the mend, having made his first rehab start with Single-A Dunedin, where he allowed five runs in 2.2 innings. Despite the rough outing, reports indicate that his velocity is back to normal, sitting between 93-95 mph. The Blue Jays will face another difficult decision regarding Berríos' return, particularly concerning which pitcher he might replace. Scherzer's ongoing struggles and potential need for an injured list stint could influence this decision, as could Corbin's inconsistent performances.

Jose Berrios' rehab start leaves brutal Blue Jays decision after Trey Yesavage return

Critics have raised concerns about the Blue Jays' depth and the impact of injuries on their season. The team's inability to maintain a stable rotation has led to questions about their competitiveness moving forward. The management's decisions regarding player placements and rotations will be scrutinized as they aim to stabilize the pitching staff.

Trey Yesavage to make final rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo

• “Get back to 75 pitches and let him feel that one more time,” — John Schneider, Manager of the Toronto Blue Jays

Trey Yesavage to make final rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo

• “#BlueJays — Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) April 16, 2026 The decision to bring back Berrios will be the difficult one for the Blue Jays to make.” — Keegan Matheson, Blue Jays Beat Reporter

Jose Berrios' rehab start leaves brutal Blue Jays decision after Trey Yesavage return

As the Blue Jays navigate these challenges, the return of key players like Yesavage and Berríos will be pivotal in determining their success in the upcoming weeks.

Trey Yesavage to make final rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo