Toronto Blue Jays right-handed pitcher Shane Bieber has been placed on the 15-day injured list, dealing a significant setback to the team as they vie for a wild-card spot with just one month left in the season. The experienced pitcher is currently battling inflammation in his teres major muscle located under his right shoulder, with the move to the injured list being retroactive to last Friday following a commendable performance against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider revealed that Bieber experienced discomfort during a bullpen session in New York on Sunday, leading to an MRI examination that diagnosed a moderate to mild teres major injury. Schneider expressed disappointment over the situation, acknowledging the impact it has on both Bieber and the team.
Bieber, the recipient of the American League Cy Young Award in 2020, has a season record of 5-2 with a 4.37 earned-run average. His season was previously interrupted by a two-month stint on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation and forearm fatigue.
Schneider expressed optimism about Bieber’s potential return this season but refrained from providing a specific timeline. The Blue Jays, currently standing at a 64-68 record, are trailing by two games for an American League wild-card position as of Tuesday. Despite the setback, Schneider emphasized the team’s resilience in facing challenges throughout the season and remaining focused on their playoff aspirations.