The Toronto Blue Jays‘ injury report is starting to get a little crowded as this long season comes to a head.
Manager John Schneider provided updates on four key players ahead of Friday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Schneider told reporters that Bo Bichette is set to see a hand specialist in Arizona next week, Daulton Varsho will undergo rotator cuff surgery and Will Wagner had knee surgery on Friday.
Additionally, Kevin Gausman, who abruptly exited Thursday’s game against the Rangers due to back tightness, is feeling better and intends to make his final start next week.
Bichette suffered a fractured middle finger on Tuesday and was placed on the IL soon after, effectively ending his season right after he had returned from a two-month-long absence due to a calf strain days before.
The 26-year-old ended the season having suited up for only 81 games and struggled with consistency, putting up .225/.277/.322 batting splits with four home runs and 31 RBIs.
Varsho, 28, will undergo the rotator cuff surgery on Monday and then rejoin the team as he goes through his rehab. The outfielder was placed on the IL on Tuesday.
According to Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, Varsho’s recovery will likely extend into spring 2025.
Wagner, 26, underwent surgery on his left knee Friday and will apparently rejoin the team in Toronto next week. On Wednesday, Schneider revealed that the rookie will have a scope to determine the severity of his knee injury, Nicholson-Smith reported.
The Blue Jays are set to kick off a three-game weekend series in Tampa Bay on Friday, with first pitch at 6:50 p.m. ET / 3:50 p.m. PT.