Scherzer is having issues with his thumb, which could force him to have an early-season injured list stint. If that's the case, then Yariel Rodriguez or Jake Bloss could make a cameo in the starting rotation.

Scherzer signed a one-year, $15 million contract with Toronto on Jan. 30 after two seasons with the Texas Rangers. The eight-time All-Star won the 2023 World Series with them after going 4-2 with a 3.20 ERA in eight regular-season starts. The New York Mets traded him to Texas midseason for shortstop Luisangel Acuna.

As for what a potential Scherzer setback does for the Jays rotation, there are options. Yuriel Rodriguez, who has been viewed as a candidate for the bullpen, has remained stretched out and could slide in as a potential fifth starter if Scherzer can’t make it.