Blue Jays' Shane Bieber Nears MLB Return After Rehab Starts

Shane Bieber is nearing his return to the Toronto Blue Jays rotation after continuing his rehab from Tommy John surgery with a solid 5.2-inning performance for Triple-A Buffalo, where he allowed two runs on four hits and struck out six. Blue Jays manager John Schneider indicated Bieber would have one more rehab start with a pitching target of 80-85 pitches before rejoining the major league team. Bieber, acquired from the Cleveland Guardians at the trade deadline, is expected to be a key part of the Blue Jays' pitching staff in 2025. His arrival has prompted speculation that veteran pitcher Chris Bassitt, who has a productive but expiring contract, may be released or not retained by Toronto. Bassitt, at 36 years old, is likely seeking a multi-year deal but faces competition from Bieber and emerging prospects like Trey Yesavage. The Blue Jays are positioning Bieber as their ideal replacement in the rotation moving forward.