MLB Rumors: Blue Jays Linked To Free Agent Pitcher With No-Hitter On Resume

April 04, 2025

The Toronto Blue Jays' rotation plans were quickly derailed when Max Scherzer exited his debut after just three innings due to right lat soreness. 

He was placed on the 15-day injured list with right thumb inflammation, an issue that Scherzer said has been bothering him for some time. “This is 100 percent related to the thumb,” Scherzer told reporters. 

“My whole arm is making adjustments because of that. That’s just a recipe for disaster.” With the team’s playoff hopes riding on a healthy roster—and both Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette set to become free agents after the season—the Blue Jays can’t afford to waste time.

According to Jacob Mountz of FanSided, Toronto is showing interest in former Philadelphia Phillies and Detroit Tigers starter Spencer Turnbull, who remains unsigned despite a strong showing in 2024. 

Turnbull posted a 2.65 ERA over 54.1 innings with 58 strikeouts last season, making seven starts for Philadelphia before transitioning to the bullpen. 

His sweeper, a recent addition to his arsenal, was among the most effective breaking pitches in baseball, according to Baseball Savant. Turnbull has dealt with his fair share of injuries, including missing all of 2022, but that could make him a bargain on the market.

Mountz notes that Turnbull’s current value is projected at around $4.4 million annually, but the Blue Jays could likely sign him for much less on a one-year deal. 

With internal options limited to Yariel Rodriguez and Jake Bloss, Turnbull offers a low-cost, potentially high-reward solution to stabilize the back end of the rotation. 

While Scherzer is expected to return, there’s no guarantee given his age and injury history. For a team on the edge, Turnbull could be the move that helps keep Toronto’s season on track.

Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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