Blue ⁣Jays Bolstered ⁣by Springer’s Return, Manoah’s Struggles Continue

The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for a crucial stretch run, and the potential return of George Springer from the injured list provides a critically⁢ important ⁣boost to ‌their lineup.However, the news isn’t all positive, as Alek ‌Manoah’s rehab assignment continues to ‍be a bumpy ⁤road.

Springer nears Activation After Concussion Scare

George Springer’s absence has ⁤been felt in the Blue Jays’‍ lineup,but the veteran ​outfielder appears to be nearing a return. After being sidelined since july 28th due to a concussion sustained from being hit by ‍a pitch, ⁣Springer has cleared concussion‌ protocols and begun a rehab assignment‌ wiht ⁢Triple-A Buffalo.

In his first rehab game, Springer went 1-for-2 with a walk and a double ‌while ⁢serving ‍as the Bisons’ designated hitter. According to Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News, Springer is ⁤unsure if he’ll play another rehab game, but he may want to ​test his legs in the outfield before rejoining the Blue Jays.

Springer’s return ‍would be a ‌welcome sight for Toronto. Before the injury,‌ he was enjoying a solid season, providing‌ both offensive firepower and veteran leadership. His resurgence this year, marked by a 122 wRC+ over 538 plate appearances, has ⁢been a key factor in the ⁤Blue Jays’ success. His experience ⁤and ability to get on base will be invaluable as the team battles for a⁣ playoff spot.

manoah’s Comeback Faces Hurdles

On the other side of the coin, Alek Manoah’s journey back to the majors is proving to be more challenging than anticipated.In his first Triple-A rehab start, Manoah struggled, allowing three runs ‌on three hits and two walks in just 1 2/3 innings,​ throwing 49 pitches.

the original plan, according to Bannon, was for Manoah to throw 70-75 pitches over five innings, but his struggles forced an early exit. This outing continues a worrying trend for the once-dominant right-hander.

It’s been a tough few years for Manoah, who hasn’t been a consistent contributor to the Blue Jays’ rotation since his strong performance in 2022.⁣ After a difficult 2023 season,his hopes for a bounce-back year⁢ were derailed by Tommy John surgery in ⁢June 2024. Across four rehab starts at various minor league levels, Manoah has posted⁣ a concerning 11.57‌ ERA,with​ more walks (eight) than strikeouts (six) in seven total innings.

The ⁢Road Ahead for Manoah

with his current struggles, it’s ⁣difficult⁢ to envision Manoah returning to a significant role with the Blue Jays anytime soon, especially with the team in the thick of a playoff race. Even a potential role in the bullpen seems⁤ unlikely‍ if he⁤ can’t improve his command ⁣and overall performance.

The​ Blue Jays also acquired Shane Bieber at the trade deadline,‌ giving them a reliable option as a sixth starter if needed.Manoah will need to demonstrate significant improvement in‌ his control and results before he can be considered a viable option for the major league ⁣roster. The team will be​ hoping he can rediscover his form, but for now, the focus remains on Springer’s return and the ‌team’s push for a playoff berth.