Bichette in, two out
Jays lose Varsho, Wagner to injuries
On the same day the Blue Jays welcomed Bo Bichette back to the big-league roster, an incumbent starter and a potential 2025 opening day roster player were effectively ruled out for the balance of the season.
It's been that kind of year for the Blue Jays, the one-step forward, two-steps back saying playing out as the team hits the road for the final time this season beginning with Tuesday's series opener against the reigning World Series champion Texas Rangers.
By far the biggest off-the field news of the day involved Daulton Varsho, an elite outfielder who has shown flashes of being more than an average hitter. He's been persevering through shoulder discomfort and it finally reached the breaking point for Varsho, who is scheduled to have rotator cuff surgery on his right throwing shoulder.
Once Varsho undergoes the procedure, the Jays believe they will have a more definitive timeline on his return. As manager John Schneider acknowledged when he held his pre-game availability, Varsho's recovery may stretch into next spring.
Varsho has been hitting out of the No. 2 hole, but his main attributes involve his glove and defensive instincts.
The team's second injury involves Will Wagner, the son of former big-league reliever Billy Wagner who became an instant hit once the Jays recalled him.
Will Wagner emerged as a hitting machine, primarily when facing right-handers, and showed he can be a competent option at second base, leading some to envision Wagner as the Jays' regular starter at second base in 2025.
In the interim, he's scheduled to visit a knee specialist in Cleveland, where Wagner will be evaluated. Until additional information is gleaned, the Jays are hopeful Wagner's setback is not serious.
Officially, Wagner was placed on the 60-day injured list with left knee inflammation.
When the Jays swept visiting St. Louis, Wagner sat during the last two games of the three-game series.
Acquired as part of the deal that sent Yusei Kikuchi to Houston, Wagner recorded eight hits in his first four games including a hit in his first big-league at-bat.
Tuesday's slate of moves also saw Tyler Heineman return to the Jays after the catcher was claimed off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. In short, this will be Heineman's third tour of duty with the Jays.
To make room for Heineman, the Jays designated Brian Serven for assignment.
He served as Bowden Francis' de facto personal trainer.
Much like Serven, Heineman can't hit and it's all but certain the Jays will scour the market this winter in hopes of adding a catcher as part of a potential platoon with Alejandro Kirk expected to shoulder the burden.