2026-06-17 · Just Baseball

The Toronto Blue Jays are nearing a crucial decision as Shane Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young Award winner, is close to returning from elbow inflammation. With Bieber's impending return, the Blue Jays must determine who will be removed from the roster to make room for him. Currently, the team has four position players and seven pitchers on the injured list, including key contributors like Daulton Varsho, Alejandro Kirk, Dylan Cease, and Max Scherzer. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Kevin Gausman have managed to avoid injuries, but the team's pitching staff is still depleted. Bieber's return will bring much-needed depth to the bullpen, but it also creates a challenge in terms of roster management. The Blue Jays recently demoted left-hander Adam Macko to Triple-A to make room for Cease, and now they must decide who will be the next to go. Patrick Corbin, a 14-year veteran, is one possibility, despite providing a steady presence on the mound and eating innings for the team. Corbin's 4.57 ERA and 98 ERA+ are not impressive, but he has outperformed his recent starts and given the team a respected veteran presence. The Blue Jays must weigh the value of Corbin's experience against the need to make room for Bieber, who is expected to make one more rehab start in Triple-A before being activated. As the team navigates this decision, they must consider the impact on their pitching staff and the potential consequences for the rest of the season. With several key players still on the injured list, the Blue Jays must make the most of their roster spots to remain competitive. The return of Shane Bieber is a welcome boost, but it also creates a complex challenge for the team's management. The Blue Jays will need to carefully consider their options and make a decision that will benefit the team in the long run. The team's pitching staff is a crucial aspect of their success, and the decision to remove a player from the roster will have a significant impact on their performance. As the season progresses, the Blue Jays will need to continue to make adjustments to their roster to remain competitive and achieve their goals.