Blue Jays' Max Scherzer Returns From Thumb Injury, Pitches Five Innings

Max Scherzer returned to the Toronto Blue Jays' rotation for the first time since March 29, pitching five innings and allowing three runs on six hits and three walks with four strikeouts, as the Blue Jays lost 5-4 in 10 innings to the Cleveland Guardians. Scherzer, who signed a one-year, $15.5 million contract with Toronto in the offseason, had been sidelined for 87 days due to persistent right thumb inflammation that required cortisone shots and a careful rehab process. Despite some early command struggles and a pitch clock violation that contributed to a two-run fourth inning, Scherzer's fastball velocity peaked at 95.2 mph—higher than any pitch he threw last season—indicating flashes of his former dominance. Blue Jays manager John Schneider and teammates noted Scherzer's competitive fire and experience, with hopes that his presence will stabilize a rotation that has seen several temporary replacements during his absence. The team is proceeding cautiously, monitoring Scherzer's thumb day-to-day, recognizing that ongoing management will be critical to his season's success. If Scherzer can regain form and remain healthy, he could be a key asset for Toronto's playoff push.