Nate Pearson Injury News & Updates

Pearson was optioned to the Blue Jays' Florida Complex League affiliate Tuesday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Jay Jackson is taking his spot in the bullpen. Triple-A Buffalo's season is over, which is why Pearson was sent to the FCL Blue Jays, where he can continue working out in case he's needed later on.

Pearson was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Friday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson will give the Blue Jays' bullpen a much-needed fresh arm after they were overused as the team got swept by the Rangers. The righty holds a 5.18 ERA and 41:16 K:BB over 40 innings during his time in the majors this season.

Pearson was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson tossed one scoreless inning during his most recent stint in the big leagues which lasted only a few days. Although he has pitched well in spurts during his time with the Blue Jays this season, a few rocky appearances has led to the hard thrower posting a 5.18 ERA out of the bullpen.

Pearson was recalled by the Blue Jays on Saturday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

This will be Pearson's third separate stint in the majors this season. He's worked exclusively as a reliever, struggling to a 5.31 ERA in 39 innings. He's struck out 44.6 percent of the batters he's faced in 12 Triple-A innings this season but has seen that figure dip to 23.6 percent against big-league batters. Hagen Danner (oblique) landed on the injured list in a corresponding move.

Toronto optioned Pearson to Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson allowed four earned runs on one hit and three walks in a one-inning appearance Tuesday against the Orioles as his season ERA climbed to 5.31. Thomas Hatch is replacing him in the Blue Jays' bullpen.

Pearson was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday.

Jordan Romano was placed on the 15-day injured list with lower-back inflammation in a corresponding move. Pearson has one save at Triple-A and one save in the majors this season, but it will likely be Erik Swanson or Yimi Garcia who get tabbed for any save opportunities that arise in the short term.

The Blue Jays optioned Pearson to Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday.

Pearson will surrender his spot in the bullpen to left-hander Genesis Cabrera, whom the Blue Jays acquired from the Cardinals via trade Friday. The demotion comes after Pearson was roughed up for six earned runs across his last two appearances, which had been proceeded by a run of eight consecutive scoreless outings.

Pearson earned a save in the nightcap of Thursday's doubleheader against the White Sox, allowing one hit in 1.1 scoreless innings.

Game 1 of the twin bill went 11 innings, resulting in Toronto using five different pitchers, including closer Jordan Romano. As such, Pearson got the call late in the nightcap, entering with two outs in the bottom of the eighth frame. The right-hander allowed a single to Luis Robert before getting the final out in the inning, then stuck around for the bottom of the ninth, during which he induced three straight flyouts to notch the first save of his big-league career. Pearson isn't a threat to challenge Romano for save opportunities moving forward, but he's recorded five consecutive scoreless appearances, allowing just three hits and no walks over six frames during that span.

Pearson (4-0) picked up the win Sunday over the Twins, allowing one hit and striking out three over two scoreless innings.

The right-hander needed only 25 pitches (16 strikes) to knife through the Minnesota order, and he was still the pitcher of record when Cavan Biggio launched a game-winning homer in the bottom of the eighth inning. Pearson's four wins have come in only 16 appearances, including three in his last four games, and his 2.05 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 25:5 K:BB through 22 innings highlight how well he and his 98 mph fastball have adjusted to a high-leverage bullpen role.

Pearson (3-0) blew a save but picked up a win in Sunday's victory over the Mets, giving up two solo home runs in an inning of relief. He struck out one.

The right-hander came into the game having not allowed an earned run in five straight appearances while posting an 11:1 K:BB, but Pearson got taken deep by Starling Marte and Pete Alonso in the sixth inning to erase a 4-2 lead. Fortunately for Pearson and the Blue Jays, Brandon Belt answered back with a two-run shot in the top of the seventh. Pearson appears to be finding a home in the bullpen, delivering a 28.8 percent strikeout rate against a 6.8 walk rate in 18 innings since his promotion.

The Blue Jays recalled Pearson from Triple-A Buffalo on Monday.

As anticipated, the flamethrowing right-hander will move into the Toronto bullpen on the heels of a spectacular start to the season at Buffalo, with whom he posted a 2.16 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 16:5 K:BB over 8.1 innings. Though he has prior starting experience, Pearson wasn't asked to record more than four outs in any of his eight appearances with Buffalo, so he could be deployed as more of a traditional reliever than a multi-inning option out of the Blue Jays bullpen. If he can continue make bats miss at a prolific clip while keeping his walks in check, Pearson could quickly move into a high-leverage role in front of closer Jordan Romano.

Pearson is set to join the Blue Jays in Toronto on Monday and could be recalled from Triple-A Buffalo ahead of the big club's series opener versus the White Sox, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

The Blue Jays appear to have abandoned developing Pearson as a starter due to injuries having cost him extensive time in each of the previous three seasons, but the power right-hander still possesses the type of premium velocity that could make him a major weapon near the back end of the bullpen. He's flashed that potential thus far at Buffalo, pitching to a 2.16 ERA and 16:5 K:BB across 8.1 innings over his eight appearances. Once he's formally activated, Pearson could start out in a lower-leverage role out of the bullpen, but it's not difficult to envision him emerging as one of the top setup men for closer Jordan Romano if he can stay healthy and keep his free passes in check.

Pearson was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo by the Blue Jays on Saturday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson will begin the season in Triple-A after forging a 3.24 ERA over six Grapefruit League appearances with a 13:5 K:BB and 1.56 WHIP. The talented right-hander will head to Buffalo as a relief option, and if he pitches well in that role he could help the Toronto bullpen in the early part of the season.

Pearson topped out at 100.8 mph with his fastball during Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees, Mike Wilner of The Toronto Star reports.

The line in the box score was less impressive, as the right-hander allowed one run on two hits, two walks and a wild pitch over one inning, but Pearson did strike out the side while tossing 18 of 31 pitches for strikes. The one-time top prospect has had his development derailed by multiple injuries and the Blue Jays might have given up on the idea of him holding up under a starter's workload, but Pearson still has a chance to make an impact in the majors as a high-leverage reliever if he can stay healthy in 2023.

Pearson "looks really comfortable in his own skin right now" and "his stuff is outstanding," Blue Jays pitching coach Pete Walker told Keegan Matheson of MLB.com Thursday.

Pearson's career has been sidetracked by injury, most recently with his 2022 season being wiped out by mononucleosis and then a lat strain. He's healthy now, though, and while his days of starting might be over, he has the potential to be a lockdown reliever for the Jays.

The Blue Jays reinstated Pearson (lat) from the 60-day injured list and optioned him to Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports.

Since Buffalo's season has already ended, Pearson won't report to the Triple-A affiliate and will instead stick around at the Blue Jays' spring facility in Florida, where he'll likely continue to stay sharp in case Toronto requires an extra bullpen arm during its upcoming postseason run, according to Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca. Pearson never made any appearances at the big-league level in 2022 after opening the campaign on the shelf while recovering from mononucleosis before he suffered a lat strain in June during his rehab assignment.

Interim manager John Schneider said the goal for Pearson (lat) is to get him throwing multiple innings again, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson has been in the minors on rehab assignments for all of the 2022 season. Since he began working back from his lat strain, he has pitched more than one inning one time -- a 1.1 inning appearance Wednesday in which he struck out four batters. That being said, if the goal is to get him back to working in multiple innings for Toronto, then it is hard to say if he will be back before the postseason.

Pearson (lat) is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Sunday with Single-A Dunedin, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson progressed to facing live batters earlier this week and has now been cleared for game action in the minors. The 26-year-old should make an appearance or two for Dunedin before moving the rehab assignment up to Triple-A Buffalo.

Pearson (lat) will throw live batting practice Wednesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson has been throwing bullpens over the last two weeks, and he'll take another step in his recovery process this week by facing live hitters. If he feels good following Wednesday's throwing session, general manager Ross Atkins hopes that Pearson will be able to begin a rehab assignment shortly after.

Pearson (lat) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson was sidelined for the start of the season after coming down with mononucleosis, and he suffered a lat strain in late June after starting a rehab assignment in the minors. The 26-year-old resumed mound work earlier in August, and the next step in his rehab will be facing live hitters.

Pearson (lat) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Wednesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson increased his throwing distance last week and has now been cleared to throw off a mound for the first time since he sustained his lat injury in June. The right-hander will likely ramp up his intensity over the next few weeks and will presumably require a rehab assignment prior to rejoining the Blue Jays.

Pearson (lat) progressed to throwing from 150 feet Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The 25-year-old resumed a throwing program in July and continues to build up his arm strength with long toss. Pearson could soon be cleared to begin mound work, and he'll likely need a couple weeks to ramp up before potentially embarking on a minor-league rehab assignment.

Pearson (lat) is now throwing from a distance up to 120 feet, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson is still not throwing off a mound, but he continues to make progress in his recovery and could be ready to throw a bullpen session in the near future.

Pearson (lat) recently resumed a throwing program at the Blue Jays' spring training complex in Florida and is "somewhat close" to throwing bullpen sessions, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson had been shut down for the past three weeks before he starting throwing again after he demonstrated enough healing from his strained right lat. Because Pearson has been on the injured list all season due to a prolonged bout with mononucleosis before suffering the lat strain in late June, the Blue Jays may not be inclined to have him build up for starting duty. If he ends up returning from the 60-day IL as a reliever, Pearson would still likely need a few weeks to complete his throwing progression and a minor-league rehab assignment prior to being activated.

The Blue Jays announced Tuesday that Pearson (lat) will be shut down for 3-to-4 weeks before he's re-evaluated, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

If Pearson's strained right lat has healed as well as the Blue Jays hope once he's re-evaluated, he'll be cleared to begin a throwing program. Even if Pearson remains free of setbacks and if the Blue Jays choose to have him prepare for a relief role upon his return, he'll still likely need at least an additional two weeks after being re-evaluated before being ready for game action. With that in mind, Pearson probably shouldn't be expected to come off the 60-day injured list until around the middle of August at the soonest, and a September return is likely more realistic.

Pearson was diagnosed with a lat strain Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson has had brutal luck with injuries and illnesses, throwing just 33 major-league innings since his debut at the start of the 2020 season. He'd been building up in Triple-A Buffalo since late June after missing the start of the season due to mononucleosis, but he only made it through four appearances before suffering yet another setback. The Blue Jays have yet to provide a timeline for his return.

Pearson (illness) was removed from Sunday's rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo due to right shoulder discomfort, Mitch Bannon of SI.com reports.

Pearson threw only two pitches during Sunday's outing before leaving with the training staff, and the severity of the issue remains unclear. The 25-year-old will continue to be evaluated over the next couple days, but his return timeline will be pushed back if he's forced to be shut down from throwing for any period of time.

Pearson (illness) was removed from Sunday's rehab start with Triple-A Buffalo due to an apparent injury, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

It was Pearson's fifth rehab outing after a bout of mononucleosis in the spring delayed his availability, but he threw only two pitches Sunday before leaving the field with the training staff. The right-hander's career has been marred by injuries, and he's now potentially dealing with another issue which could further push back his return timeline.

Pearson (illness) made another rehab appearance at Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson allowed a run on two hits and no walks while striking out four in two relief innings during Tuesday's outing. Manager Charlie Montoyo was pleased with the 25-year-old's results, as he reached 98-99 mph while tossing two innings for a third consecutive outing. Montoyo is hopeful that Pearson will be able to build up to three innings at some point and have less recovery time between his rehab appearances. The right-hander isn't guaranteed a spot on the major-league roster once he's deemed fully healthy, but the team views him as a multi-inning relief option.

Pearson (illness) will pitch at Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson's rehab assignment shifted to the Triple-A level Thursday, and he allowed a run while striking out two in two relief innings. He was moved to the 60-day injured list Monday but is eligible to rejoin the Blue Jays as soon as the team deems him fully healthy.

Pearson (illness) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Monday.

The transaction has no bearing on Pearson's return timeline, as he's been out since the start of the season after a bout of mononucleosis interrupted his spring training and is already eligible to return from any injured list. He's made a pair of rehab appearances but may need a handful more before he's activated from the injured list.

Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said Tuesday that Pearson (illness) will shift his rehab assignment from Single-A Dunedin to Triple-A Buffalo, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson will move up to the Jays' top affiliate after he struck out a batter and allowed one run on one hit and one walk over 1.2 innings in his lone rehab outing for Dunedin. Montoyo noted that he envisions Pearson serving as a multi-inning relief option upon his return from the 10-day injured list, though the 25-year-old right-hander will have to earn his spot with the big club by performing well in Buffalo during his assignment. Pearson has two minor-league options remaining, so the Blue Jays could choose to keep him at Triple-A if there's not a spot for him in the big-league bullpen once his rehab window ends.

Pearson (illness) threw 30 pitches in a rehab appearance with Single-A Dunedin on Thursday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson completed 1.2 innings and allowed one earned run on one hit and a walk while striking out one. He sat at 95 mph with his fastball and hit 97, which is down from the last two seasons. That's not a major reason for concern yet, as Pearson is ramping up after being sidelined for the entire season by mononucleosis. It's unclear how many more rehab appearances he may need, as he is projected to fill a long-relief role once activated.

Pearson (illness) could begin a rehab assignment soon, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson has been going through a full ramp-up program after being sidelined with mononucleosis during spring training. He pitched in an extended spring training game this week and continues to make progress towards returning in a bulk role.

Pearson (illness) completed a 28-pitch bullpen session Tuesday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

The Blue Jays noted that Pearson's fastball touched 96 miles per hour in the throwing session, only a couple ticks below his average velocity over his 12 appearances in the majors in 2021. Assuming Pearson felt fine physically following the side session, he should advance to facing hitters in live batting practice or in a simulated game later this week at the Blue Jays' extended spring training facility in Dunedin, Fla.

Pearson (illness) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Tuesday at the Blue Jays' spring training complex, Mitch Bannon of SI.com reports.

Toronto has been building up Pearson slowly since he overcame a bout with mononucleosis in mid-April, as he has yet to advance to facing hitters despite having dealt with no setbacks in his throwing program over the past month. Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca suggests that if Pearson's bullpen session goes well, he'll finally be cleared to throw live batting practice later this week. After that, Pearson could head out on a minor-league rehab assignment.

Pearson (illness) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session in Dunedin on Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson threw 26 pitches Tuesday, and he's scheduled for another throwing session at the Blue Jays' extended spring training site to close out the week. The right-hander was diagnosed with mononucleosis in early April but has made good progress since then. However, he'll still need to build up his pitch count before presumably beginning a rehab assignment at some point.

Pearson (illness) tossed a 26-pitch bullpen session Tuesday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson was able to mix in all of his pitches during the throwing session and said afterward that he felt good. The right-hander looks to be fully healthy again after he was diagnosed with mononucleosis in early April, but he'll still need more time to build up his pitch count. Pearson is expected to report to the Blue Jays' spring facility in Florida to continue his ramp-up program before eventually making his way to Triple-A Buffalo for a rehab assignment.

Pearson (illness) has joined the Blue Jays in Toronto and is slated to throw a bullpen session Monday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

Pearson resumed throwing off a mound in mid-April, and he faced hitters last week. General manager Ross Atkins said the right-hander has been building up for a "bulky role" after missing the start of the regular season due to mononucleosis. Once Pearson is fully built up, he'll likely head to Triple-A Buffalo or serve as a multi-inning reliever in the majors.

Pearson (illness) is preparing for a "bulky role" according to general manager Ross Atkins, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson is still building up to speed after missing the start of the season due to mononucleosis. He's scheduled for his second live batting practice session later this week. While he's seemingly still viewed as a starter long-term and could head to Triple-A Buffalo once healthy, the Blue Jays seem to view his best path to immediate major-league usefulness as coming in a multi-inning relief role.

Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said Pearson (illness) is slated to throw his second live batting practice session either Friday or Saturday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.

After opening the season on the 10-day injured list following his diagnosis of mononucleosis, Pearson has shaken off the illness but is still in the process of regaining strength and conditioning. He took a significant step forward by facing hitters last Saturday, but the Blue Jays want Pearson to complete another live session this weekend before mapping out a minor-league rehab assignment for him. Toronto still plans on developing Pearson as a starter, and with a rotation spot with the big club unlikely to be open for him once he's fully ramped up, the 25-year-old seems likely to report to Triple-A Buffalo upon being activated from the IL.

Pearson (illness) will throw a live BP session Saturday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson threw 36 pitches during a throwing session Tuesday, and he'll fave live hitters Saturday. The Blue Jays intend to use the right-hander in a multi-inning role once he's cleared to return, so he'll likely require more time to build up before returning to game action.

Pearson (illness) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson was seemingly always unlikely to break camp in the big leagues, but a bout of mononucleosis late in spring training ruled him out entirely. He still has plenty of work to do to build up to a starter's workload, which remains the Blue Jays' plan for now even though there's a chance he could help the major-league squad sooner in a bullpen role.

The Blue Jays are hopeful Pearson (illness) is ready to resume throwing off a mound this weekend or early next week, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Toronto is continuing to bring Pearson along slowly in his throwing progression after the hard-throwing righty recently battled mononucleosis. While advancing to mound work would represent a step forward for Pearson, he's still likely at least a week or more away from heading out on a minor-league rehab assignment. The Blue Jays are planning to have Pearson build up for starting duty, so he'll presumably require at least two rehab appearances or simulated games at lower-level affiliates before likely settling in the rotation at Triple-A Buffalo once he's formally reinstated from the 10-day injured list.

Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said Pearson (illness) threw off flat ground from 90 feet Tuesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson isn't traveling with the Blue Jays and remains at the team's spring training facility in Dunedin, Fla., but Montoyo relayed that all indications are that the hard-throwing righty is feeling much better while he works to overcome a recent bout of mononucleosis. The Blue Jays are intending to have Pearson build up for starting duty, so it could take a couple of weeks for him to advance far enough in his throwing progression to the point that he's ready to begin a minor-league rehab assignment.

Pearson (illness) will be built up as a starter after he resumed throwing Saturday, Gregor Chisholm of the Toronto Star reports.

Pearson recently dealt with mononucleosis, and he's expected to require several weeks to build up before he's cleared to return to game action. The Blue Jays don't have a clear rotation spot available, so it's still possible that the team will ultimately utilize Pearson out of the bullpen once he's back in action.

Pearson (mono) is set to resume light throwing, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

After missing time with the illness, Pearson won't have a quick buildup, but he is finally starting to feel better. There is no timetable for him to join the big-league bullpen, but it seems like that could happen later this month.

Pearson (illness) is "feeling much better" according to Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins and could resume baseball activities within days, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

The right-hander is recovering from mononucleosis and his last spring training appearance came March 26, so he will likely need time to get back in form again before seeing game action. It's not yet clear what the Jays plan to do with Pearson once he's healthy, but the 25-year-old has minor-league options remaining and the team is already facing a bullpen crunch when rosters shrink down in May, so an assignment to Triple-A Buffalo where he can get stretched back out as a starter seems the most probable course for Pearson once he's ready to begin his season.

Pearson (illness) was placed on the 10-day injured list Thursday, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports.

Pearson is battling mononucleosis and is expected to miss an extended period. He'll likely stretch out as a starter for Triple-A Buffalo once healthy, though his best path to the majors this season could be via the bullpen.

Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said Tuesday that Pearson (illness) has been diagnosed with mononucleosis and will be out "a while," Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson was already on track to miss out on a spot in the Blue Jays' Opening Day bullpen after an unspecified ailment had kept him from working out with the team for the past few days, and he looks like he'll be sidelined for the first few weeks of the season now that he's received a diagnosis for his illness. The Blue Jays are expected to formally place Pearson on the injured list at some point before the weekend. Since Toronto had planned to have Pearson stretch out for starting duty in the spring, he could prepare for a rotation role with Triple-A Buffalo once he's cleared to begin a minor-league rehab assignment. Before he even resumes throwing, however, Pearson will turn his focus on resting up and attempting to shake off an illness that can often carry a volatile recovery timeline.

The Blue Jays informed Pearson (illness) on Monday that he won't be included on the Opening Day roster, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson reported to camp prepared to compete for a starting role, though the bullpen always seemed to be his most realistic path to a roster spot after the Blue Jays added Kevin Gausman and Yusei Kikuchi in free agency to fill out their rotation. The 25-year-old appeared to be on track to win a relief role after he struck out six and allowed four baserunners in 4.1 innings between his first two Grapefruit League appearances, but he hadn't appeared since March 26 after succumbing to an illness. It's unclear whether the Blue Jays will stash Pearson on the 10-day injured list while he recovers from the ailment, or if he'll be optioned to Triple-A Buffalo as Toronto trims down its active roster to 28 men ahead of Opening Day.

Pearson won't pitch Thursday due to illness, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson reportedly experienced potential COVID-19 symptoms but tested negative for the virus. Assuming he shakes off his illness within a few days, he should be ready to go by Opening Day, but he might not spend that day on the major-league roster. He won't be part of the team's rotation, Matheson reports, and it's unclear whether Toronto wants him in the big-league bullpen or continuing to build up as a starter in Triple-A.

Pearson gave up three runs on three hits over 2.1 innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. He struck out two without walking a batter.

The flame-throwing right-hander entered the game to begin the fifth inning and quickly dispatched the bottom of the Yankees' order, but he gave up three straight hits to kick off the sixth, capped by a monster shot down the right-field line by Joey Gallo. Pearson is still being stretched out as a starter in camp and has an impressive 6:1 K:BB through 4.1 innings, but the Yusei Kikuchi signing would seem to block any chance he had of beginning the season in the rotation. It's not yet clear whether the Blue Jays intend to option Pearson down to Triple-A Buffalo and let him build up innings, or use him in the big-league bullpen in a multi-inning role.

Pearson (groin) will be treated as a starting pitcher this spring, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson worked mainly as a reliever last year and gained increased competition for a starting role when the Blue Jays signed Yusei Kikuchi on Saturday. However, the right-hander is still one of several pitchers who will be stretched out as starters ahead of the regular season. Pearson should be healthy to begin camp after undergoing surgery to repair a sports hernia in early November, and the team was pleased with how he performed to close out the 2021 campaign.

Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said Thursday that Pearson recently underwent surgery to repair a sports hernia, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. "He should be fine [for spring training] -- he should not be disrupted at all," Atkins said of Pearson. "We're excited about how he finished the year and excited about him building up again."

Atkins hinted at the end of the season that an offseason procedure could be in the cards for Pearson, and the 25-year-old ultimately waited less than a month into the offseason to head in for surgery. The core-muscle injury cost Pearson significant time in 2021, with the hard-throwing righty first experiencing the issue in the spring before landing on the injured list again in June. Because of how the injury disrupted his buildup program, Pearson worked almost exclusively as a reliever for Toronto this past season, coming out of the bullpen in 11 of his 12 appearances while submitting a 4.20 ERA and 1.73 WHIP in 15 innings. Toronto plans to have Pearson stretch back out for a starting role in spring, but he'll still be forced to compete for a spot in the club's Opening Day rotation.

General manager Ross Atkins said Wednesday that Pearson will be assessed this week to determine whether a procedure is required to address a sports hernia, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson dealt with a groin injury in August but rejoined the major-league club for the final month of the season and felt strong to close out the year. The right-hander served mainly as a reliever in 2021, but Atkins said that the team still views him as a multi-inning pitcher. It's not yet clear whether he'll join the starting rotation in 2022, but Atkins also indicated that the Blue Jays will consider Pearson's health and workload when determining his role.

Pearson (1-1) allowed a hit and two walks with two strikeouts in two innings to earn the win in Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader versus Baltimore.

The 25-year-old worked the fifth and sixth innings of a game Baltimore was leading until the seventh when Toronto pulled ahead. That was enough to give Pearson his first win of the year in his fifth appearance. He's allowed seven runs (six earned) across 7.1 innings with a 7:7 K:BB, so it's safe to assume he'll remain in a multi-inning relief role going forward.

Pearson (groin) will be recalled from Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports.

The 25-year-old was activated from the minor-league injured list in mid-August after recovering from the groin injury, and he gave up two runs on three hits with a 5:2 K:BB in five innings over five outings for Triple-A Buffalo. Pearson and Bryan Baker will be promoted from Buffalo to fill the two roster spots opening up with Wednesday's roster expansion. Pearson started in his lone appearance in the majors this year back in May, but he'll now operate as a bullpen piece.

Pearson (groin) is slated to make his third rehab outing with Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson tossed a perfect inning in both of his first two outings with Buffalo, and he's set to make at least one more appearance before potentially joining the Blue Jays' bullpen. If Sunday does indeed mark Pearson's final rehab outing, he could join Toronto at some point during the upcoming four-game series against the White Sox.

Pearson (groin) will start for Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The righty isn't expected to have a long outing as he prepares to join Toronto's bullpen in the near future. In recent simulated games, Pearson has sat high-90's with his fastball, a sign that he's feeling good and may not need a ton of rehab work. The date of his next appearance should become clear after he recovers from Saturday's game.

Pearson (groin/illness) was delayed by a non-COVID illness but should join Triple-A Buffalo for rehab work by the end of the week, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

The illness appears to be nothing more than a minor obstacle in the oft-injured righty's road back to Toronto. It's unclear how much work Pearson will require in Buffalo, but considering he'll be a reliever for the rest of the season, he won't need to build up for long outings. More details about his timeline should become clear later in the week when he joins the Triple-A squad.

Pearson (groin) recently completed a simulated game and is scheduled for an outing in the Florida Complex League, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson is building up as a reliever while he makes his return from the sports hernia that's sidelined him since mid-June. After throwing in Florida, the 24-year-old could be ticketed for a rehab assignment with Triple-A Buffalo before rejoining the Blue Jays.

Pearson (groin) has begun to build back up after being diagnosed with a sports hernia but will do so as a reliever, Mitch Bannon of SI.com reports.

Pearson received plenty of hype heading into last season but has thus far failed to establish himself thanks to a long list of injuries. He appears to be finally turning a corner with his last issue, however, with the Blue Jays expressing relief that he wasn't diagnosed with anything worse. He's on track to throw live batting practice next week. Pearson won't have time to build up to a starter's workload by the end of the year but certainly has the stuff to help the team in a relief role. That role will significantly limit his fantasy ceiling in redraft leagues, however, so those who have been holding onto him in hopes he could start down the stretch may want to think about letting him go.

GM Ross Atkins said Wednesday that Pearson is away from the team this week to receive another medical opinion in his injured right groin, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Team president Mark Shapiro made a similar announcement last week, which makes it at least the fifth medical opinion he's received for the groin injury. The specifics of the issue have apparently been difficult to pin down, and there's some concern Pearson is dealing with an underlying issue that's causing problems. The 24-year-old's availability going forward is firmly up in the air, and the team is "determined" to find a path toward him pitching again this season.

Blue Jays team president Mark Shapiro said Thursday that Pearson will soon receive a fourth medical opinion on his strained right groin, Arash Mardani of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The multiple medical opinions would seemingly suggest the Blue Jays have a high degree of concern about Pearson's injury, which is an aggravation of the same groin he strained back in spring training. The previous injury was a Grade 1 strain, but Pearson could be dealing with a moderate or more severe strain this time around. Expect the Blue Jays to provide a formal update on Pearson along with a potential recovery timeline once the organization is satisfied with the medical evaluations it has received.

Pearson was placed on the 7-day injured list with a right groin strain, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

The injury comes at a bad time for the big righty, who had strung together consecutive strong outings at Triple-A, allowing 2 runs in 11 innings between the two starts. There's been no indication yet of how long Pearson might be sidelined by the groin strain.

Pearson (shoulder) is listed as Triple-A Buffalo's scheduled starting pitcher for Friday's game against Worcester.

Pearson was scratched ahead of his most recent outing over the weekend due to right shoulder inflammation, but Buffalo didn't deem the injury serious enough to place him on the 7-day injured list. Assuming he experiences no setbacks while throwing in the next day or two, Pearson won't miss any further turns through the rotation. The Blue Jays will likely want to see Pearson find some sustained success at Triple-A before a promotion to the big-league rotation is revisited.

Pearson will miss his next Triple-A start due to a mild right shoulder impingement, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson still has considerable potential, but a constant stream of injuries has thus far prevented him from establishing himself at the big-league level. He was expected to spend most of last year in the majors but was limited by a flexor strain to just 18 largely unimpressive innings. This year, it was a groin injury which kept him out for the first month of the year before he failed to get out of the third inning in his season debut. He was demoted to Triple-A following that outing and is now dealing with yet another injury. He's still been able to throw long toss, so this particular issue may not wind up being a major one, but it's a quickly becoming a worrying pattern for the young righty. He'll have to get healthy again and make a handful of good Triple-A starts before returning to the big leagues.

Pearson was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday.

Pearson missed the first month of the season with a groin strain before being called up to start Sunday against the Astros. He struggled significantly, giving up three runs on four hits and five walks in just 2.1 innings of work while failing to strike out a single batter. The team evidently feels he has more to prove before he's ready to claim a rotation role. Jeremy Beasley was recalled in a corresponding move.

Pearson (0-1) allowed three runs on four hits and five walks over 2.1 frames while taking a loss against Houston on Sunday.

Not only did Pearson walk five batters and throw just 28 of 64 pitches for strikes, but he also failed to record a strikeout in the short outing. The 6-foot-6 righty walked in a run during the second inning and was chased from the game after allowing three straight Astros on base in the third. He missed the first month of the season with a groin injury but looked solid in his season debut with Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday. Pearson will look for better results in his projected start at home against the Phillies next weekend.

The Blue Jays recalled Pearson from Triple-A Buffalo ahead of his scheduled start Sunday against the Astros.

Reliever Rafael Dolis (calf) was moved to the 10-day injured list to clear a spot on the active roster for Pearson, who will be making his 2021 debut for the Blue Jays after a spring groin injury sidelined him for the first month-plus of the season. Pearson worked 3.2 innings and covered 78 pitches in his most recent outing at Triple-A on May 4, so he should be stretched out enough to handle a typical starter's workload Sunday.

Manager Charlie Montoyo confirmed Pearson will be recalled from Triple-A Buffalo to start Sunday at Houston, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports.

The 24-year-old took the mound Opening Day for Buffalo on Tuesday and allowed one run with eight strikeouts over 3.2 innings, and he'll join Toronto for his next start after missing the start of the season with a groin issue. Pearson threw 78 pitches during that outing and shouldn't face any significant limitations in his season debut for the Blue Jays.

Pearson will likely start Sunday's game against the Astros, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson dealt with a groin injury to begin the regular season but pitched for Triple-A Buffalo to begin the minor-league campaign. In his first start for the team, he allowed one run on four hits while striking out eight in 3.2 innings. Left-hander Anthony Kay should be available out of the bullpen with Pearson starting Sunday. However, it's not yet clear whether Pearson will remain in the major-league rotation after Sunday's start.

Pearson allowed four hits and a single run, fanning eight, over 3.2 innings is his season debut at Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday.

Pearson walked just one batter, throwing 53 of his 78 pitches for strikes, and will likely be looking to build up his pitch count in his next appearance. He could be a candidate for a rotation spot with the Blue Jays after a few more starts in Buffalo,

Pearson will start on Opening Day for Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday, but he'll need to show he can work at least six innings consistently before he's considered for a promotion, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

The Jays could use some reinforcements in their rotation, but they aren't going to rush the young right-hander. Pearson tossed 65 pitches in his last appearance at the alternate training site, but his efficiency will be just as important as his stamina in determining when he rejoins the Toronto staff.

Pearson (groin) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list and optioned to the alternate training site Thursday.

Pearson build up to 51 pitches over the weekend and is slated to throw 3-to-4 rehab innings Thursday. However, he'll join Triple-A Buffalo for the start of the minor-league season and should continue to rehab in a live game setting early next week. If all goes well with the Triple-A club, Pearson could return to the major-league rotation in the near future.

Pearson (groin) built up to 51 pitches over the weekend and will throw 3-to-4 rehab innings at the alternate site Thursday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

He gave up four earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out two in his most recent rehab outing, and it sounds like the Jays want him to look a little sharper this week before determining the next steps. If all goes well Thursday, it's possible Pearson could join the big-league rotation next week.

Pearson (groin) will throw 2-to-3 innings in an intrasquad game Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson has thrown at 100 percent intensity without pain recently, and he's now working on building back up ahead of his season debut. However, the team hopes to build the right-hander up to around five innings before he returns to game action. As a result, he should require at least one more throwing session after Friday's intrasquad game before he's considered to return.

Pitching coach Pete Walker said Pearson (groin) "feels really good" and is scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The 24-year-old has been throwing at 100 percent intensity since the start of last week, and he has another live batting practice session on tap Tuesday. Pearson began the season on the injured list after aggravated a groin injury in mid-March, but he appears to be closing in on his season debut.

Pearson (groin) is "absolutely pain free" and throwing at 100 percent intensity on the mound, per general manager Ross Atkins, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reported Tuesday.

It will just be a matter of getting Pearson built back up at the alternate training site before he is able to slot into the MLB rotation. He has been throwing bullpen sessions dating back to last week.

Pearson (groin) threw a bullpen session Thursday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson's throwing session Thursday marked the first time he threw off a mound since re-aggravating his groin injury in mid-March. Manager Charlie Montoyo said that Pearson will essentially take part in a throwing program similar to the one he would do in spring training, and he'll be deliberately be built up as a starter in the coming weeks. Ross Stripling should continue to serve as a starter while Pearson builds back up.

Pearson (groin) has not yet thrown off a mound, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

It was reported earlier in the week that he would advance to mound work Friday, but that apparently didn't happen. Pearson remains without a timetable to return to game action.

Pearson (groin) is scheduled to throw off a mound Friday, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports.

The 24-year-old aggravated a right groin injury in mid-March and was previously limited to long toss, so a return to mound work is a big step in his recovery. Pearson doesn't have an official timeline for his return, but Toronto figures to remain cautious, especially since he already suffered one setback since originally suffering the injury March 4.

Pearson (groin) landed on the 10-day injured list Thursday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

The move is an unsurprising one, as Pearson aggravated a groin injury in mid-March and has yet to return to mound work. He's been able to throw for over a week, but the Blue Jays will prioritize the long-term health of a pitcher who could be a key piece of the team's rotation for years to come rather than trying to get as many innings as possible from him this April.

Pearson (groin strain) is still just throwing long toss and does not have a scheduled date for full bullpen sessions yet, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Given that Pearson has already had one setback, the Jays are making sure he doesn't have another one with this injury. He's going to need to progress to full bullpen sessions and then simulated games, and then finally perhaps to some of the alternate training camp site games that each team is planning before he'll get cleared to return to the Jays' rotation.

Pearson (groin) has resumed throwing and will throw a bullpen session within the next few days, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.

While Pearson is making good progress, the Blue Jays are proceeding cautiously since he's already had one setback last week. He doesn't appear to have time to make the Opening Day roster but could join the rotation at some point early in the year.

Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said that Pearson suffered a "mild re-aggravation of his right groin" injury while throwing a bullpen session Tuesday, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports.

Toronto is labeling Pearson as day-to-day, but the setback with the groin injury effectively eliminates any hope he had of making the Blue Jays' Opening Day roster. With Pearson out of the running for a rotation spot, Atkins said that Ross Stripling "has a leg up" over Thomas Hatch and Anthony Kay for the fifth starter's role, according to Gregor Chisholm of the Toronto Star.

Pearson (groin) will throw another bullpen session Tuesday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson's groin strain is expected to prevent him from being ready to start by Opening Day, but the fact that he continues to throw is certainly a good sign. It's not yet clear if Pearson will be ready to open the year in the bullpen or if he'll continue to go through a throwing progression while off the active roster.

Pearson (groin) felt good after throwing a bullpen session Saturday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Manager Charlie Montoyo said Friday that Pearson won't have time to stretch out prior to Opening Day, but his throwing session Saturday as well. The right-hander will throw another bullpen in the coming days, and he could presumably advance to live batting practice or simulated games after that. It's not yet clear whether the Pearson will begin the regular season in the bullpen or if he'll build up to a starter's workload away from the team.

Pearson (groin) will throw a bullpen session Saturday but won't be ready to start by Opening Day, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports.

Pearson's spring buildup has been interrupted by a groin strain. While the issue isn't a particularly worrisome one, it's disrupted his preseason preparation to the point that he won't have time to stretch out as a starter by the time the regular season begins. It's not yet clear whether he'll start the year in the bullpen or continue building up to a starter's workload while off the roster.

Pearson (groin) threw long toss from 120 feet Tuesday and is slated to repeat the activity Thursday, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports.

Pearson had most recently been playing catch from 90 feet, so he's apparently taken a marginal step forward in his throwing program. If Pearson comes out of Thursday's long-toss session without incident, he could be cleared for a bullpen session this weekend. The 24-year-old may still be facing an uphill battle to make it back for Opening Day, but he shouldn't be on store for a lengthy absence to begin the season.

Pearson (groin) played catch from 90 feet Saturday, Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun reports.

Pearson was diagnosed with a Grade 1 right groin strain Thursday, but the team didn't sound too concerned about the injury. The right-hander felt good after his throwing session Saturday, but he'll be re-evaluated Sunday. It's not yet clear whether the injury will impact his availability for Opening Day. A better timetable for his return could be known based on how he feels after his evaluation Sunday.

Pearson is dealing with a grade 1 groin strain, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports.

Pearson suffered the injury during his spring debut Monday against the Pirates. The Blue Jays don't sound particularly concerned, but they understandably intend to be cautious with their top pitching prospect. While the team hasn't yet commented on his availability for Opening Day, it was always likely Pearson would have his innings managed in some form this season, so it's possible he's brought along slowly and starts the year on the injured list.

Pearson is focused on improving his command this season, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. "In the Minors, you can definitely get away with being a little erratic because velo can help you out at times," Pearson said. "I definitely learned up in the big leagues you can't just throw it hard and spray it a lot. You've got to attack the zone and throw strikes and competitive pitches more often than not."

The young right-hander didn't disappoint with his raw fastball velocity in his debut last year, routinely popping 100 mph or more, but Pearson's overall results were disappointing as his location both inside and outside the strike zone was often erratic. A flexor strain in his elbow didn't help matters, but even if Pearson stays healthy in 2021, his ability to improve his command will be the key to turning his impressive arsenal into actual production. "I felt like early last year I was trying to paint corners too much rather than just fill up the zone with strikes," the 24-year-old said. "That's exactly what I did when I came back off the IL; just attack hitters and fill up the zone. That's what I plan to do in Spring Training and that's one of my goals; throw competitive pitches and strikes. I think good things will always happen when you're filling up the zone."

Pearson (1-0) picked up the win in Friday's 10-5 victory over the Orioles, allowing one hit and one walk over 1.2 scoreless innings of relief. He struck out two.

Entering the game after Taijuan Walker tossed three perfect innings in an abbreviated outing, Pearson quickly demonstrated that his arm was healthy again by striking out the first batter he faced, Austin Hays, on three pitches -- a 100.1 mph fastball, an 86.3 mph slider, and then a 101.5 mph fastball. He was rewarded with his first career win. Pearson threw 24 pitches (17 strikes) during his first appearance since Aug. 18, and while the 24-year-old won't have time to get stretched out and join the rotation before the regular season ends, he could be a devastating option out of the bullpen for the Jays in the playoffs.

Pearson (elbow) is being activated prior to Thursday's game against the Yankees, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The Blue Jays are hoping to get Pearson a clean inning for his first career relief outing. He will not make anymore starts this season, but it is nonetheless encouraging that he will hopefully enter the offseason having returned to game action and with a clean bill of health.

Pearson (elbow) feels good and is expected to return from the injured list soon, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson won't have time to build up to a starting workload before the end of the year as he works his way back from an elbow strain, but he'll be able to pitch in shorter outings out of the bullpen. The Blue Jays want him to be ready for that role in the postseason and will give him at least one appearance before the end of the regular season to help him prepare.

Pearson (elbow) threw 25 pitches in a live batting practice session Monday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson made just four starts, posting an unimpressive 6.61 ERA,1.53 WHIP and 14:12 K:BB, before being sidelined with a flexor strain in mid-August. He won't have time to build back up to a starter's workload this season, but there's a chance he returns as a reliever for the final few days of the regular season and playoffs. The Blue Jays should have a clearer picture of when he'll return once they know how his arm responded to Monday's session.

Pearson (elbow) is scheduled for a live batting practice session Monday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The 24-year-old completed his first live BP last week and will take the mound again Monday. According to Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca, Pearson is expected to cover one-to-two innings per outing out of the bullpen once he's activated, which could come later this week if Monday's session goes well.

Pearson (elbow) threw a successful live batting practice session Wednesday but will remain at the alternate training site for now, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The next step in the 24-year-old rehab work remains unclear, so he'll stay at the alternate site. Manager Charlie Montoyo said Pearson won't return to the rotation down the stretch, but the team is trying to build him up as much as possible as he returns from the right flexor strain.

Pearson (elbow) will throw a live batting practice session Tuesday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson has been sidelined since Aug. 18 with a strained right elbow, but his live batting practice session could be one of his final tests before returning to action. The right-hander is expected to pitch in shorter stints out of the bullpen once he returns, so he shouldn't require as much time to rebuild his workload.

Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said Sunday he expects Pearson (elbow) to throw a live batting practice session at some point this week, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The rookie right-hander will either accompany the Blue Jays on their road trip to New York to face hitters or stay behind at the team's alternate training site to move on to the next phase of his rehab. Montoyo has already indicated that the Blue Jays intend to bring Pearson back as a reliever, so he won't require as long of a period of time to get his arm conditioned for game action. Pearson has been sidelined since Aug. 18 with a strained right elbow.

Pearson (elbow) continues progressing and could have a shot to return as a reliever down the stretch, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson made just four starts before suffering a flexor strain in mid-August. He doesn't have time to build up to a starter's workload before the end of the year, but the Blue Jays are keeping the door open for him as a reliever. It's not guaranteed he'll have time to do so, as the Blue Jays won't want to push things with their prized prospect, but he continues to throw and remains in contention to return at some point.

Pearson (elbow) threw off a mound Saturday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson had been limited to throwing on flat ground, recently extending out to 120 feet. He's now cleared a major hurdle with his return to mound work, and pitching coach Pete Walker said Pearson looked "very strong" during the 26-pitch session, per Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic. The Blue Jays would obviously like to get Pearson back in some capacity this season; the righty may be hard pressed to make it back in a starting role before the end of September.

Pearson (elbow) played catch from 120 feet Tuesday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

Pearson suffered a right flexor strain in mid-August, though he was able to resume throwing within 10 days of being shut down. While he continues to make good progress, he's yet to throw off a mound, so his return doesn't appear to be imminent.

Pearson (elbow) was throwing up to 90 feet Saturday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Pearson played catch Friday for the first time from 60 feet and already upped the throwing distance to 90. There is no current outlook for a return but it's not out of the discussion for the young right-hander to be reactivated before the regular season concludes so long as he continues ramping up his progress without any setbacks.

Pearson (elbow) played catch from 60 feet Friday, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

The 24-year-old received good news earlier this week when he was diagnosed with a right flexor strain, and playing catch Friday is his first time throwing since landing on the injured list Aug. 19. Pearson is unlikely to be retaking the field anytime soon, but he may be able to return for the closing stretch of the season if all goes well as rebuilds the strength in his arm.

Pearson was diagnosed with a flexor strain and hopes to resume playing catch this weekend, Scott Mitchell of TSN.ca reports.

This means that the injury is on the inside of the elbow (closest to the body). It's good that the results of Pearson's second opinion did not come with a recommendation of surgery, but it still seems like he is a ways off from returning to game action. Given that he is the Jays' top pitching prospect, they will likely handle his recovery with kid gloves.

Manager Charlie Montoyo said Pearson (elbow) is "feeling good" since being placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday, but the Blue Jays are still awaiting the results of a second opinion on the rookie's injury before deciding on a treatment plan, Mike Wilner of Sportsnet 590 The Fan reports.

Pearson has already met with a doctor for the second opinion, but there has been a lag time in the results due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Blue Jays expect to gain clarity in the next few days on Pearson's injury, which is being labeled as right elbow tightness. Given Pearson's reliance on his upper-90s fastball, the Blue Jays could be inclined to shut him down for an extended period even if doctors determine that his elbow is structurally sound.

Pearson (elbow) will get an MRI Thursday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports.

The hard-throwing prospect was shut down earlier this week with elbow tightness, which is never a good sign. General manager Ross Atkins said the team is "not overly concerned", but that's pretty typical front office speak with pitching injuries like this where there has not been an official diagnosis. Trent Thornton (elbow) is coming off the injured list to take Pearson's spot in the rotation.

The Blue Jays placed Pearson on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with right elbow tightness, Mike Wilner of Sportsnet 590 The Fan reports.

Pearson admitted his elbow was barking following another poor start in Tuesday's 8-7 win over the Orioles, during which he surrendered five runs on four hits -- including three home runs -- while issuing three walks over four innings. Though the rookie said his elbow was feeling better when he met with the training staff early Wednesday, manager Charlie Montoyo confirmed that Pearson would undergo further testing as the Blue Jays look to gain more information about the extent of the injury, per Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca. Since tossing five shutout innings in his MLB debut back on July 29, Pearson hasn't been sharp, posting a 9.53 ERA and 1.85 WHIP over his subsequent three outings. Montoyo said that Pearson's spot in the rotation would be taken by Trent Thornton (elbow), who will be activated from the IL to start one half of Thursday's doubleheader with the Phillies.

Pearson gave up five runs on four hits and three walks while striking out three in a no-decision versus the Orioles on Tuesday.

Pearson gave up a pair of homers to Anthony Santander and another long ball to Chance Sisco in the outing. The 23-year-old Pearson also struggled with control again, as he's now allowed three or more walks in each of his last three starts. The right-hander has a 6.61 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and 14 strikeouts in 16.1 innings. He'll look to get on track Sunday versus the Rays in his next start.

Pearson allowed seven runs (four earned) on five hits and four walks while striking out one across 2.1 innings Wednesday against the Marlins. He did not factor into the decision.

After retiring the first two batters he faced to begin the game, Pearson walked Corey Dickerson, allowed a single, and then surrendered a three-run home to Brian Anderson. After a scoreless second inning, Pearson unraveled in the third, as he allowed a pair of singles and walks before exiting the game down 4-0 with the bases loaded. Overall, he managed to find the zone with just 33 of his 65 pitches, and generated only three swinging strikes. Control has been a problem early in Pearson's big-league career, as he has issued nine free passes in 12.1 innings of work. He'll look to sort things out in his next start, currently projected for Tuesday at Baltimore.

Pearson did not factor into the decision during Thursday's loss to the Braves, allowing three runs on two hits and three walks while striking out five over five innings.

Pearson found himself on the wrong side of the scoreboard after surrendering a first-inning, two-run home run to Freddie Freeman. Despite the early deficit, Toronto's top prospect quickly settled down, allowing one final run on a sacrifice fly to Adam Duvall in the fourth. Pearson was solid in his major-league debut against the Nationals last week, striking out five across five scoreless innings. The 23-year-old will take the mound again Wednesday for a showdown with the Marlins.

Pearson will start Thursday's game against Atlanta, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports.

Pearson impressed in his major-league debut Wednesday, but the Blue Jays were forced to reconfigure their rotation order after their weekend series was canceled. As a result, the right-hander will attempt to repeat his production in the team's series finale against Atlanta.

Pearson allowed two hits and two walks while striking out five across five scoreless innings Wednesday against the Nationals. He did not factor into the decision.

Pearson made his much anticipated major-league debut and did not disappoint, routinely hitting 98 mph with his fastball. He relied on his heater and slider almost exclusively, generating 13 called strikes and 14 swinging strikes across 75 total pitches. While his ability to generate whiffs came as advertised, Pearson also showed the ability to harness his pitches, beginning 13 of the 19 batters he faced with a strike. He'll be further tested in his next start, currently projected for Tuesday at Atlanta.

Pearson's contract was selected by the Blue Jays on Wednesday ahead of his major-league debut against the Nationals.

Pearson failed to make Toronto's Opening Day roster but is evidently now considered big-league ready less than a week later, making his big-league debut on the first possible date in which he can be called up while being denied a well-deserved year of service time. Pearson pairs an electric fastball with a plus breaking ball and has a good chance to start strong despite making just three Triple-A starts last season, as his 2.30 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 30.7 percent strikeout rate across the three highest levels of the minors last season bode quite well for his ability to get major-league hitters out.

The Blue Jays confirmed the report that Pearson will start Wednesday's game in Washington, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports.

This had been reported previously, but it was a scoop from one reporter. Manager Charlie Montoyo confirmed the report after Monday's game. Pearson has been one of the Blue Jays' best, most deserving starters all offseason, spring and summer, but the team will manipulate his service time by delaying his debut seven days. He has a 70-grade fastball, plus breaking ball and improving changeup and could hit the ground running in pro ball. While this is technically a "home" game for the Blue Jays, the game will be in the Nationals' home park.

Pearson will be called up to start Wednesday against the Nationals, Jamie Campbell of Sportsnet reports.

Pearson was evidently not big-league ready on Opening Day but has been deemed good to go just a few days later. The highly-touted prospect has appeared in just three Triple-A games, but his overall 2.30 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 30.7 percent strikeout rate in 25 starts across the three highest levels of the minors last season certainly suggest he'll have a good shot to hit the ground running in his major-league debut.

Pearson will be promoted to the Blue Jays' active roster July 29, Jamie Campbell of Sportsnet reports.

This isn't too surprising, since keeping Pearson down for the first week of the season gives the Blue Jays an additional year of control over the right-hander. Regardless of Pearson's role following his promotion, he figures to pitch a healthy amount of competitive innings during the abbreviated 2020 campaign so he can push up over 100 innings in 2021.