Scherzer throws 27 pitches in rehab from thumb injury

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer threw 27 pitches off the mound Friday as he continues his recovery from a right thumb injury that has sidelined him since his debut with the team on March 29. Manager John Schneider described the session as a 'step in the right direction,' noting Scherzer threw all his pitches, including breaking balls, though not at full intensity. Scherzer has received two cortisone shots to aid recovery, and while his timeline for return remains uncertain, an early May comeback appears possible if he responds well and completes rehab assignments. The Blue Jays, who signed Scherzer to a one-year, $15.5 million contract, have struggled to replace him in the rotation, with Easton Lucas posting a 7.41 ERA in his absence. Scherzer's thumb injury initially caused him to leave his first start after just three innings and has been a recurring issue since spring training. Despite his absence, Toronto's pitching staff has managed a 3.79 ERA as the team sits slightly below .500, preparing for a series against the division-leading New York Yankees.