Jose Berrios: Don’t expect to see him right at the start of the season

In recent days, concerns have begun to mount in Toronto over Jose Berrios's health. The starting pitcher, who has had a reputation as an ironman for nearly a decade, is suffering from elbow inflammation.

And of course, elbow issues mean there's a risk of Tommy John surgery.

For now, nothing has been confirmed in that regard. That said, we know Berrios has consulted an expert for an in-person evaluation, which isn't reassuring.

And Keegan Matheson, appearing on Overdrive today, was clear: we really shouldn't expect Berrios to be ready for the season opener.

Clearly, there's a real chance Berrios will start the year on the injured list.

“Opening Day has gotta be out of the question.”@KeeganMatheson on the latest on Jose Berrios' injury status and dealing with elbow inflammation. pic.twitter.com/9VibqblpBm — OverDrive (@OverDrive1050) March 16, 2026

It is possible, in fact, that Berrios has avoided the worst and will be able to rejoin the rotation very quickly. It is not impossible, for example, that he won't have to go on the injured list even if he starts the season a few days late.

But what we do know is that there is still concern in Toronto about Berrios. And suddenly, we realize that the Jays' pitching depth is going to be tested sooner than we thought.

Shane Bieber won't be ready, Berrios likely won't be either, Trey Yesavage is on a very limited workload, and Max Scherzer signed late. Yes, Kevin Gausman had better get plenty of rest while waiting for reinforcements.

We can expect the Blue Jays to provide a more detailed update on the pitcher's condition in the coming days. But increasingly, we must prepare for a scenario in which Berrios won't be the iron man he's always been in the majors.

Let's hope this doesn't lead to Tommy John surgery now.

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