Scherzer (forearm) removed from start vs. Dodgers after two innings

TORONTO -- Max Scherzer was removed from Monday night’s 14-2 loss to the Dodgers at Rogers Centre after just two innings and 36 pitches with right forearm tendinitis, another cause for concern in a rotation that already has plenty.

Scherzer’s velocity was down in the early innings, which included a two-run shot surrendered to Teoscar Hernández. There were no obvious signs of what Scherzer was dealing with on the mound, but prior to the top of the third inning, manager John Schneider walked onto the field to let the home-plate umpire know that his starter’s day was done.

After the game, Schneider said the team was aware of Scherzer's tendinitis heading into the night, while also confirming the ailment didn't get any worse as a result of the outing. Toronto's manager added he felt "fairly confident" Scherzer will be able to make his next start.

That would certainly be a welcome development for the Blue Jays, as their rotation is already dealing with four starters on the IL, including Trey Yesavage (right shoulder impingement), Shane Bieber (right elbow inflammation), José Berríos (right elbow stress fracture) and Cody Ponce (right ACL sprain). Naturally, the burden has been shifted to the bullpen, which has been forced to churn through arms far earlier than anyone planned to cover innings.

Over the weekend in Chicago, it was Lazaro Estrada’s turn, and he gave the Blue Jays four scoreless innings in a bulk-relief role on Saturday before being optioned back to Triple-A Buffalo. On Sunday, Austin Voth gave the Blue Jays 2 2/3 innings of relief, but he was designated for assignment Monday to make room for Josh Fleming, who came in behind Scherzer.