Blue Jays' Kirk Likely Out 6 Weeks; Scherzer in Line for Start Alejandro Kirk, the Toronto Blue Jays' All-Star catcher, underwent surgery on his fractured left thumb and is expected to miss approximately six weeks, according to manager John Schneider. The procedure involved the placement of a screw to stabilize the injury, which Schneider confirmed during a Tuesday press conference. Kirk, who had a breakout season in 2025 with a .282 batting average, 15 home runs, and a second All-Star appearance, will be sidelined as Tyler Heineman and rookie Brandon Valenzuela step in to fill his role. The Blue Jays, struggling to start the 2026 season with a 4-6 record entering Tuesday’s games, face further challenges as injuries continue to impact their roster. The team’s woes extend beyond Kirk’s injury. Veteran right-hander Max Scherzer, 41, was forced to exit his start after two innings on Monday due to forearm tendinitis. However, Schneider reported that Scherzer felt physically prepared to return for his next scheduled start, signaling optimism about his recovery. Scherzer’s potential return adds depth to a rotation already dealing with setbacks, though his presence will be crucial as the Blue Jays aim to rebound from their early-season struggles. Another significant setback came for right-hander Cody Ponce, who will require surgery on his right knee following a March 30 incident during his first big league appearance since 2021. The injury will sideline Ponce for roughly six months, further complicating the team’s pitching depth. Ponce’s absence highlights the ongoing challenges the Blue Jays face in maintaining consistency on the mound, particularly with key contributors sidelined.#alejandro_kirk #toronto_blue_jays #john_schneider #max_scherzer #cody_ponce
