Blue Jays vs Twins: Todays Starting Lineup - Game Preview

Max Scherzer is making enough progress with his thumb issues to start today and seeking the type of test only big-league hitters provide, Scherzer will make the two-plus hour drive to Fort Myers for an outing against the Minnesota Twins.

The veteran right-hander, whose status to begin the season is uncertain because of the troublesome digit, will be among a handful of regulars on the lengthy trip during camp's penultimate day, an atypical choice for someone of his stature.

Surprising call, John Schneider?

The goal will be for Scherzer to throw 60-65 pitches and how he feels during the outing - and perhaps more pivotally how he feels during his recovery Sunday - will be one key component of a weekend that will bring the Blue Jays' roster into focus.

Given the questions about Scherzer - even if he breaks camp, Schneider acknowledged the thumb «is something that we're going to be in touch with him about» during the season - it's hard to imagine them sacrificing the length option for the bullpen.

A complicating factor is that for the moment, the Blue Jays' bullpen configuration is uncertain, as if Scherzer is ready, Yariel Rodriguez will work as a reliever, and if not, he's a starter.