Toronto Blue Jays Adjust Rotation: Lucas Sent Down, Walker Recalled
Toronto Blue Jays Trim Rotation to Four as Lucas Options to Triple-A
The Toronto Blue Jays have made a roster move ahead of their series against the Houston Astros, optioning starting pitcher Easton Lucas to Triple-A Buffalo. In his place, the team has recalled reliever Josh Walker. This adjustment leaves the Jays with a four-man rotation for the time being.
Rotation Plans for Houston Series
With an off day scheduled for Thursday, the Blue Jays will skip their fifth starter’s spot this time around. The rotation for the Houston series will consist of the following pitchers:
- Kevin Gausman – Starting Monday’s game against the Astros
- Chris Bassitt
- Bowden Francis
Return to Five-Man Rotation
Manager John Schneider has confirmed that the Blue Jays will revert to a five-man rotation after the upcoming series against the New York Yankees. While an off day next Monday would have allowed them to stick with a four-man staff, the team has instead decided to return to their usual five-man setup.
The Blue Jays’ five-man rotation will resume after the Yankees series.
Easton Lucas’ Performance and Demotion
Lucas, 28, entered the 2023 season with just 14 career major league appearances, all in relief. He was thrust into the starting rotation following Max Scherzer‘s thumb discomfort, which landed the veteran pitcher on the injured list. Lucas initially performed well, tossing 10 1/3 scoreless innings with 11 strikeouts over his first two starts. However, he struggled mightily in his subsequent outings. He allowed eight runs (including three home runs) to the Braves and was unable to get out of the second inning in his most recent start against the Mariners, giving up six runs. His overall ERA currently stands at 7.41 through 17 innings.
Lucas’ recent struggles led to his demotion to Triple-A Buffalo.
Max Scherzer’s Injury Update
Scherzer provided a modest update on Monday, stating that a second cortisone shot has helped improve his ability to grip the ball ("via Hazel Mae"). While he was able to throw off flat ground during pregame warm-ups at Minute Maid Park, Scherzer does not appear close to embarking on a rehab assignment.
Depth Concerns Behind the Jays’ Starting Five
The Blue Jays’ decision to turn to Lucas initially highlights their lack of depth beyond their Opening Day starting rotation. Beyond Lucas, Jake Bloss—acquired in last summer’s Yusei Kikuchi trade—has just three major league starts under his belt. Bloss has struggled in his first four Triple-A starts this year, posting a 7.31 ERA with a below-average 17.5% strikeout rate. Adam Macko, a prospect who underwent meniscus surgery in February, and Eric Lauer, who owns a 5.68 ERA through his first four Triple-A starts, are the most experienced non-roster depth options for the Blue Jays.
Looking Ahead: Challenges for the Blue Jays’ Rotation
As the Blue Jays prepare to return to a five-man rotation, they face a daunting task in finding a suitable replacement for Lucas. Theirбрdeath struggles with injury have left them searching for consistent starting pitching behind their Opening Day five. With Scherzer’s return still uncertain, the team may have to explore external options to bolster their rotation.
Stay tuned for updates on the Blue Jays’ rotation as they navigate through the 2023 season.
Did you know?
The Blue Jays had one of the best pitching staffs in the MLB in 2022, finishing fourth in ERA and third in strikeouts per nine innings.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the Blue Jays’ minor league system for potential starting pitching help, as the team has several promising arms working their way up the ranks.
FAQ
Q: Who is starting for the Blue Jays in Houston?
A: Kevin Gausman will start Monday’s game against the Astros.
Q: When will Max Scherzer return to the mound?
A: Scherzer does not appear close to a rehab assignment, and his timetable for return remains uncertain.
Join the conversation
Comment below with your thoughts on the Blue Jays’ rotation and potential solutions to their starting pitching woes.