The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off a strong home stretch, are set to embark on a crucial nine-game road trip beginning with a matchup against the Minnesota Twins. Currently holding a 33-29 record, they remain competitive in the tightly contested AL East, trailing the New York Yankees by 5.5 games.

In exciting news, the Blue Jays announced that Alek Manoah, a former first-round draft pick, is on track to face live hitters for the first time since June 2024. Manoah's journey has been tumultuous, highlighted by an All-Star appearance in 2022, but he struggled last season before being sidelined with an elbow injury. Meanwhile, Brandon Barriera, another first-rounder recovering from Tommy John surgery, is progressing well and will soon join the Florida Complex League for a rehab assignment.

As the Blue Jays look to improve their standing, both Manoah and Barriera's recoveries could significantly impact their pitching lineup for the rest of the season.