Blue Jays pitcher Shane Bieber has been sidelined for 15 days due to an injury, impacting the team’s playoff hopes as they compete for a wild-card spot. Bieber’s injury involves inflammation in his teres major muscle near his right shoulder, with the move to the injured list backdated to the day after his recent impressive performance against the Tampa Bay Rays. Blue Jays manager John Schneider revealed that Bieber experienced discomfort during a bullpen session, leading to an MRI confirming a moderate to mild teres major injury.

The setback is disappointing for both Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young winner, and the team. Bieber, currently holding a 5-2 record with a 4.37 ERA this season, had already faced challenges earlier in the season with elbow inflammation and forearm fatigue. Schneider expressed hope for Bieber’s return this season but could not provide a specific timeline.

As the Blue Jays strive for a wild-card position with a 64-68 record, the absence of Bieber adds pressure to the team. Schneider acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the injury, emphasizing the need to adapt and overcome challenges as they navigate the final stretch of the season.