Toronto Blue Jays Issue Injury Updates on Alek Manoah, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Others

With Opening Day just two weeks away, the Toronto Blue Jays provided updates on several key players grappling with injuries.

First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is currently sidelined due to a left knee contusion. Although he hasn’t undergone imaging yet, Guerrero will undergo a full workout at the team’s player development complex in Dunedin, Florida. This setback comes after Guerrero recently suffered a jammed finger. Despite these challenges, Guerrero showcased his prowess by earning his third consecutive All-Star appearance last season, finishing with impressive stats including 26 home runs, 94 RBI, and a Home Run Derby victory.

On the pitching front, the Blue Jays are monitoring the progress of three hurlers working to overcome their respective injuries.

Kevin Gausman, dealing with shoulder fatigue, is slated to engage in a side session on Tuesday. Depending on his bullpen session’s outcome, Gausman may progress to either live batting practice or a Grapefruit League game.

Yariel Rodriguez is on track to throw live batting practice as he continues his recovery from back spasms. The 26-year-old Cuban pitcher aims to throw approximately 40 pitches, with hopes of making his Spring Training debut thereafter.

As for Alek Manoah, the team remains cautious, with no definitive timetable for his return. Manoah, grappling with shoulder soreness, is currently engaged in playing catch.

Gausman boasts an impressive track record, ranking third in baseball with 95 starts over the last three seasons. He has consistently performed well, earning two All-Star nods and top-10 finishes in Cy Young voting.

Manoah, initially heralded as a rising ace following his standout rookie season in 2021 and an All-Star appearance in 2022, faced challenges in 2023, experiencing a decline in performance.

Rodriguez, a notable addition to the Blue Jays’ roster this offseason, has the opportunity to showcase his skills during the remaining weeks of Spring Training, vying for a spot on the big league roster.