Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Cody Ponce frustrated with ACL sprain, return not ruled out
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Cody Ponce’s 2026 season with the Toronto Blue Jays may already be in jeopardy.
Cody Ponce exited his Toronto Blue Jays debut start on Monday in the top of the third inning due to a right knee injury.
An MRI later revealed a sprained ACL, an issue that will sideline him for “significant time,” according to manager John Schneider on Tuesday.
It’s yet another setback for a rotation that has already been hit hard by injuries.
At this stage, the injury has been diagnosed as an ACL sprain, though doctors are continuing to evaluate the MRI to determine whether there is any additional damage, including a possible tear.
Either way, Ponce is expected to be out for the foreseeable future.
He was officially placed on the 15-day injured list ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Rockies.
John Schneider provides insight into Ponce's mindset and support system going forward
Speaking with MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson, Schneider shared that Ponce is understandably frustrated but is leaning on a strong support system.
“I talked to him for a while last night, up until about 1 in the morning,” manager John Schneider said. “He’s got a pretty good perspective. He’s frustrated, for sure, but I think he has a good perspective on it. The person in me just hates it for him. His first outing, weird play, all of that. But he’s handling it OK. He was in here with his brother-in-law today, George Kittle.”
Kittle, a standout tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, was in attendance Monday to watch Ponce’s Blue Jays debut, his first appearance in the majors since 2021.
Ponce is married to Kittle’s sister, Emma, and the two have developed a close relationship over time.
Ponce has previously credited Kittle for helping him reconnect with his love for the game, inspired by the way Kittle combines elite skill with an infectious personality on the field.
Kittle is currently working his way back from a torn Achilles suffered during a January playoff game against the Eagles, which could make him an especially valuable source of support for Ponce during his recovery.
The Blue Jays are ожидаing to finalize a full diagnosis and treatment plan within the next 24 hours, with surgery remaining a possibility.
When asked whether Ponce could return to pitch at some point in 2026, Schneider didn’t rule it out, though there is clear concern within the organization.
“That’s what we’re holding onto,” Schneider said, “until we have all of the opinions. I think there’s probably a slight chance of that.”
Despite the setback, the Blue Jays may only need to navigate a short-term gap in the rotation.
Reinforcements are expected soon, with José Berríos (stress fracture) and Trey Yesavage (shoulder) reportedly ahead of Shane Bieber (forearm) in their recoveries.
Bieber, in particular, will need a more extended ramp-up similar to spring training before returning.
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Toronto Blue Jays reveal MRI results on Cody Ponce hyperextended right knee
Toronto Blue Jays reveal MRI results on Cody Ponce hyperextended right knee
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