Blue Jays starter Marcus Stroman aiming for September Return

Toronto Blue Jays priced arm Marcus Stroman isn’t about to let a year-long rehab process keep him out for the entire 2015 MLB season.

Previously told he would be out for the season, Marcus Stroman doesn’t appear to want to hear it. The sparkplug starter is looking to make his return to the Toronto Blue Jays rotation in September according to Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.

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The Blue Jays announced that Stroman would miss the entire 2015 season after tearing his ACL on March 10th. During a bunt drill, Stroman came off the mound to field the ball but was called off by third baseman Josh Donaldson. When he stopped himself, he felt a pop in the knee and immediately came out of the drill. After MRI results confirmed the team’s worst nightmare, Alex Anthopoulos called an impromptu press conference to confirm the news to the media and fans.

According to WebMD, typical rehab from an ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tear can take between 4-6 months. Given that the injury occurred in March, the Blue Jays were obviously playing it cautious and aiming for a 2016 return for the right-hander. Stroman’s determination appears set to come out on the shorter end of that.

"“I’m not going to rush it,” said Stroman. I would never come back prematurely. I’m going to make sure I’m absolutely 100 percent when I come back. But I want to be back on the mound in September. That’s what I’m working towards.” (h/t Arden Zwelling)"

That’s a lot of work for a guy that is also working on finishing his college degree at Duke University while he’s on the shelf. However, if he can get back on the field in August, that will give him approximately 3-4 works to get into game shape in the minors before a September call-up to Toronto.

"“I’m doing everything I can to get better. Because if there’s an opportunity for me to come back this year and help this team, I want to be ready to go.”"

After going 11-6 with a 3.65 ERA, a 2.84 FIP, and a 3.96 K/BB ratio, Marcus Stroman was on track to be the ace of the Blue Jays staff in 2015 and would have certainly drawn the Opening Day start at Yankee Stadium on Monday. Unfortunately, things happen and the Blue Jays were forced to reconsider their plans, including using Drew Hutchison as the Opening Day starter and elevating both Daniel Norris and Aaron Sanchez to the rotation.

Of course, the question will be raised as to what role would be best served for Stroman upon returning. Given the short preparation he would make to get ready, it may be too much for him to jump back into the rotation. At the same point in time, the Blue Jays may not need him there depending on the performance (and health) of the other starters. With that in mind, a bullpen role may be best for Stroman’s long-term health. However, the Blue Jays will cross that bridge when and if Stroman can make the return happen.

But if there is one person you don’t want to bet against, it is Marcus Stroman. Marcus Stroman, my hero!

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