After a 3-0 start to the season, the Toronto Blue Jays lost five of the next six games ahead of their homestand against the World Series-defending champions Los Angeles Dodgers. In addition to the early-season slump, the team is also dealing with injuries. Here’s what you need to know about which players are on the injury list (IL) and how long they’ll be gone. 10-day IL Alejandro Kirk The catcher is expected to be out until at least mid-May, as he is expected to undergo surgery for a left thumb fracture he sustained during a game against the Chicago White Sox. Addison Barger The outfielder is dealing with a left ankle sprain. 15-day IL Jose Berrios The right-handed pitcher is dealing with a right elbow stress fracture. He has been throwing live bullpen sessions. Yimi Garcia The right-handed pitcher continues his rehab following last year’s right elbow surgery. Shane Bieber The right-handed pitcher who opted in to stay with the team for US$16 million has right elbow inflammation. According to MLB.com, he felt good coming out of a recent bullpen session. Trey Yesavage The rookie pitcher is expected to pitch in the minors as he continues to work his way back from a right shoulder impingement. 60-day IL Anthony Santander The outfielder underwent left shoulder labral surgery and is expected to miss much of the season. Cody Ponce The right-handed pitcher was injured during his Blue Jays debut on April 1, when he sustained a right knee ACL sprain. He signed a three-year, US$30 million contract in December. Bowden Francis The right-handed pitcher underwent a right UCL reconstruction surgery and will miss the entire season. Other notable injuries: Right-handed pitcher Max Scherzer only pitched two innings on April 6 against the Dodgers due to a right forearm tendinitis. Blue Jays manager John Schneider told reporters after the game that he believes Scherzer will make his next start.
