Latest on Max Scherzer; Erik Swanson

Swanson, who has been out since Spring Training, is scheduled to throw a sim game on Saturday; a rehab assignment will likely follow. Although the Blue Jays bullpen has held its own, Swanson would be a welcome addition.

Barring anything unforeseen, Jacob Barnes or Mason Fluharty would likely be the odd man out. Barnes is out of options, which could tip the scales in his favour, but Fluharty is a lefty.

The Blue Jays like the idea of having two left-handers in the bullpen - Brendon Little is the primary one - but right-hander Nick Sandlin is also effective against lefties, and could also be used in this role.

Barnes has a 5.14 ERA in five games this year.

Scherzer also seems to be on the mend. Keegan Matheson reports that the future Hall of Famer received a 2nd cortisone shot, this time in a different area of his thumb.

Manager John Schneider has said that Scherzer will likely join the team on the road and start throwing side sessions if able. From there, it will be a lot of wait-and-see.

When Scherzer returns, Easton Lucas will likely be sent back down to Triple-A. Although the 28 year old has fared admirably filling in for Mad Max, the Blue Jays want to keep him and stretched out as a starter, which they wouldn't be able to do if they keep him on the team.

Either way, Lucas will be back at some point.