Max Scherzer's comeback efforts have hit a roadblock.
Toronto Blue Jays manager told reporters that the veteran pitcher has paused his rehab stint after receiving three cortisone injections in his right thumb on Monday, per Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling.
Scherzer has made just six appearances for Toronto in Year 19, holding a 10.23 ERA over 22 innings of work. The 41-year-old has made four starts with triple-A Buffalo as he works his way back, posting a 5.93 ERA through 13.2 innings pitched.
The three-time Cy Young winner re-signed with Toronto ahead of the 2026 season on a one-year deal.
Schneider also provided a slew of additional updates on Friday, including Anthony Santander, who began experiencing excess shoulder soreness as he ramped up his rehab progression. He, too, received a cortisone injection, per Schneider, and will be sidelined for five to seven days before resuming activity.
The former Silver Slugger has yet to make his 2026 debut, on the heels of an injury-riddled 2025 season that saw him make just 54 appearances for the Blue Jays after signing a five-year deal last summer.
Outfielder Jesus Sanchez is scheduled to hit against live pitching on Saturday and resume base-running next week and could begin a rehab assignment shortly after that. He's currently on the 10-day IL with an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Addison Barger, also on the 10-day IL with a back and elbow injury, remains sidelined from baseball activity.
Reliever Yimi Garcia is scheduled to throw live BP on Saturday in Dunedin, Fla., as he works his way back from the 60-day IL.
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