Toronto Blue Jays starter Max Scherzer removed after two innings vs Los Angeles Dodgers

Toronto Blue Jays starter Max Scherzer exited from Monday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers after just two innings of work.

The exact issue wasn’t immediately known, but Scherzer was seen in discussion with manager John Schneider and pitching coach Pete Walker following the second inning.

He did not return for the third, prompting a pitching change. Left-hander Josh Fleming entered the game in relief.

Scherzer’s final line included two earned runs on two hits, along with one walk and two strikeouts, across 36 pitches.

Scherzer's velocity was notably down throughout the appearance, with his fastball averaging 92.1 m.ph., down more than a full tick from his first outing of 2026.

The Blue Jays have already been dealing with early-season challenges.

In Sunday’s loss to the Chicago White Sox, pitcher Eric Lauer exited early due to illness.

Recently, Cody Ponce and Alejandro Kirk were placed on the injured list, joining a growing group that includes Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, Jose Berrios, Yimi Garcia, Bowden Francis, and Anthony Santander.

Additionally, right fielder Addison Barger was held out of Monday’s lineup after being diagnosed with discomfort in both ankles following Sunday’s game.

Toronto, now sitting at 4–5, opened a three-game set against Los Angeles in a rematch of last season’s championship series, where the Dodgers secured a Game 7 win in extra innings.

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