
Exciting Updates: Scherzer, Stroman, Imanaga, and Eovaldi Set for Returns!
2025-06-23
Author: Michael
Max Scherzer's Comeback—Is He Ready?
The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up to activate Max Scherzer from the 60-day injured list this Wednesday, setting the stage for his return in a showdown against the Guardians. After undergoing two Triple-A rehab outings, Scherzer threw an encouraging 30-40 pitches in a recent bullpen session, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a nagging thumb injury that’s haunted him for over a year.
Scherzer, who joined the Jays this offseason on a hefty $15.5 million deal, faced a disappointing start to his Toronto journey, exiting his debut after just three innings due to thumb discomfort. "My stuff is fine. I’m doing everything I can to manage this (thumb) and ensure a solid recovery," Scherzer told reporters. However, the uncertainty surrounding his thumb means the Blue Jays are likely to carefully manage his pitch count, especially after he exceeded 50 pitches during his rehab starts.
Stroman's Return on the Horizon!
In New York, Marcus Stroman is on the verge of his own return. The Yankees’ ace is scheduled to make his third, and potentially final, minor league rehab start on Tuesday. If all goes well—he’s targeting around 70 pitches—manager Aaron Boone hinted that Stroman could soon be activated from the 60-day IL. After knee inflammation derailed his initial three starts earlier in the season, Stroman’s return could be timely, especially with Ryan Yarbrough recently hitting the IL, opening a spot for him in the rotation.
Imanaga's Imminent Comeback!
Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs are set to welcome back Shota Imanaga, who has been sidelined since early May with a left hamstring strain. Following three successful minor league rehab appearances, Imanaga is eyeing a return this week, although manager Craig Counsell hasn’t confirmed if he’ll pitch against the Cardinals in their upcoming four-game series. His comeback is crucial for a Cubs team that finds itself at the top of the NL Central, even amidst injuries to key players.
Eovaldi's Ace Status Restored!
On the Texas front, Nathan Eovaldi is making waves with news of his return to the mound this Friday against the Mariners. Despite having not pitched since May 27 due to elbow inflammation, Eovaldi won’t require a minor league rehab stint. Manager Bruce Bochy disclosed that he had a productive live batting practice session, tossing over 50 pitches. As the Rangers deal with multiple injuries in their pitching staff, Eovaldi’s return is a breath of fresh air—especially considering his phenomenal 1.56 ERA in his first 69 1/3 innings this season.
With these dynamic pitchers rejoining their respective teams, the excitement is palpable in MLB as fans eagerly await to see how these stars will impact the rest of the season!