The Toronto Blue Jays ’ aggressive trade deadline gamble on Shane Bieber was aimed at upgrading the starting rotation for a playoff run in 2025. Toronto added Bieber in a deal with the Cleveland Guardians white the injured ace was still rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. On Friday, Bieber returned to a major league mound for the first time in nearly 17 months.

The former Cy Young winner made a strong first impression with the Blue Jays in his 2025 debut . Facing the Miami Marlins , Bieber allowed one run on two hits and no walks while striking out nine batters in six innings, per MLB.

It’s difficult to imagine a more auspicious start after such a lengthy layoff. Bieber allowed just three Marlins to reach base in his six innings. He gave up a solo home run to Javier Sanoja in th

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