As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, the Toronto Blue Jays find themselves navigating through a critical stretch of games, with postseason hopes hanging in the balance. Amidst this challenge, injuries to key pitchers Yimi García and Alek Manoah have tested the team’s depth and resilience. Here’s a comprehensive look at the nature of their injuries, current recovery statuses, and potential return timelines.
Yimi García: Shoulder Impingement Clouds Bullpen Stability
Injury Overview
Veteran reliever Yimi García was placed on the 15-day Injured List on May 25, 2025, due to a right shoulder impingement. The injury came at a time when García had been one of the most reliable arms out of the bullpen, posting a 2.43 ERA over 26 appearances this season.
A shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are intermittently trapped and compressed during shoulder movements, leading to inflammation and pain. For pitchers, this can severely impact velocity and control.
Recovery Timeline
While the team has not given an official return date, typical recovery from a mild-to-moderate shoulder impingement can range from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on severity and how the pitcher responds to rehabilitation.
García is expected to:
1. Rest and undergo physical therapy for 1–2 weeks to reduce inflammation.
2. Resume light throwing after the pain subsides.
3. Progress to bullpen sessions by mid-to-late June.
4. Rejoin the team potentially in the first half of July, assuming no setbacks.
Implications for the Blue Jays
García’s absence leaves a notable gap in late-inning matchups. Manager John Schneider has rotated between Erik Swanson and Genesis Cabrera in high-leverage situations, but neither has matched García’s consistency. The team may explore bullpen reinforcements via minor league call-ups or the trade market if recovery extends longer than expected.
Alek Manoah: Post-Elbow Surgery Comeback Journey
Injury Overview
Once considered a cornerstone of the Jays’ rotation, Alek Manoah underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery in the 2024 offseason after a lingering injury and mechanical breakdowns derailed his performance. He entered the 2025 season on the injured list and has been rehabbing ever since.
Current Status
As of May 2025, Manoah has resumed bullpen sessions and is reportedly pain-free. His mechanics have been tweaked to reduce stress on the elbow, and his fastball velocity is gradually returning to pre-injury levels.
The Jays have been cautious, following a structured rehab plan:
March–April: Strength training and range-of-motion therapy.
Early May: Flat-ground throwing.
Late May–June: Bullpen sessions (currently ongoing).
July: Potential rehab assignment with Triple-A Buffalo.
Early August: Estimated MLB return window, if rehab goes smoothly.
Outlook and Challenges
Manoah’s return isn’t just about health—it’s also about confidence and command. He struggled significantly in 2023, with an ERA over 5.00, and looked a shell of the All-Star who once led the AL in wins. However, team insiders remain optimistic, noting his improved focus, revamped delivery, and positive results during side sessions.
Expect the Blue Jays to limit Manoah’s innings initially, possibly using him as a bulk reliever or spot starter before reintegrating him fully into the rotation.
Conclusion
The Toronto Blue Jays are entering a pivotal juncture of the 2025 season with key arms sidelined. While Yimi García’s injury is more short-term in nature, Alek Manoah’s comeback is a long-term investment with potentially high rewards. Their respective returns could reshape the bullpen and rotation dynamics heading into the season’s second half.
For now, the team will rely on depth, patience, and perhaps the trade market as they await reinforcements from the IL.
