Max Scherzer took a significant step toward rejoining the Toronto Blue Jays rotation, throwing a 22-pitch bullpen session at Yankee Stadium on Monday as he recovers from right forearm tendinitis. Manager John Schneider indicated the veteran right-hander could face batters later this week if his progression continues smoothly.

Scherzer's return would bolster a rotation that has struggled without him. The 41-year-old signed a $3 million, one-year contract after helping Toronto reach the World Series last season, but has posted a disappointing 1-3 record with a 9.24 ERA in five starts before landing on the injured list.

The Blue Jays received additional positive injury updates. Shane Bieber, out since spring training with elbow inflammation, will throw batting practice Tuesday. Meanwhile, catcher Alejandro Kirk continues progressing through baseball activities after fracturing his thumb in early April. Right-hander Yimi Garcia and outfielder Nathan Lukes are also advancing in their rehab assignments.

These reinforcements arrive at a critical juncture for Toronto's playoff positioning, as the team needs consistent starting pitching to remain competitive in the AL East race.