Eric Lauer's resurgence has been pivotal for the Toronto Blue Jays as they navigate a challenging season. Since joining the rotation at the end of April, Lauer has impressed with his performance, boasting a 1.72 ERA in June with 36 strikeouts over 35.1 innings. His ability to keep hitters at bay, allowing only a .176 batting average, makes him a critical asset, especially with Max Scherzer's return looming.

Lauer's approach to pitching relies more on finesse than velocity, averaging just 91.8 mph on his fastball yet maintaining effectiveness. The left-hander emphasizes location and off-speed strategies, drawing admiration from teammates and coaches alike. As Lauer prepares for an upcoming start against the Cleveland Guardians, his mindset remains focused on controlling his pitch execution to help snap the Jays out of their recent slump.

Max Scherzer is set to return as the starting pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays in their upcoming game against the Cleveland Guardians. Manager John Schneider expressed enthusiasm about Scherzer's comeback, highlighting his experience and impact on the team's rotation. Scherzer, who had been sidelined due to thumb inflammation, has completed a successful rehab stint and is expected to contribute significantly to the Blue Jays' playoff aspirations. His presence will ease the burden on fellow starters and help stabilize the pitching staff as the team aims for a wild card position in the playoff race.

Despite his recent struggles, Max Scherzer is a seasoned veteran with accolades including three Cy Young Awards and over 3,400 career strikeouts. Teammate Chris Bassitt remarked that Scherzer’s return solidifies the rotation and will take pressure off other pitchers like Jose Berrios and Kevin Gausman. The Blue Jays currently hold the second wild card berth, and with Scherzer back in form, they are hopeful for a strong finish to the season.

The Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago White Sox are set to face off in the deciding game of their weekend series, each team having taken a blowout victory. Chris Bassitt takes the mound for Toronto, while Adrian Houser represents the White Sox. Alejandro Kirk has been a key player for the Blue Jays, consistently hitting well, including a recent performance where he recorded a hit in 18 of 24 games. This trend aligns well with his matchup against Houser, against whom he has already succeeded in all plate appearances. Additionally, Bassitt's strikeout ability has improved in recent starts, making him a viable option against a White Sox lineup that struggles with strikeouts, particularly on the road.

With a six-game slate for MLB DFS on June 22, 2025, players are looking to fill their lineups with promising picks. The Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners, and Cincinnati Reds stand out as teams with favorable matchups, potentially leading to high scores. Chris Bassitt emerges as a reliable option on the mound, coming off a strong performance against the Chicago White Sox, who struggle against right-handed pitchers.

Andrew Abbott, fresh off eight scoreless innings, faces the St. Louis Cardinals, who have shown limited power against lefties. Rhys Hoskins is a sleeper to watch as he seeks to bounce back against David Festa, who relies heavily on fastballs. Elly De La Cruz and Christian Yelich also make this slate’s must-pick lists thanks to their recent form and advantageous matchups.

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Daulton Varsho has shown flashes of potential this season but struggles have held him back. After being drafted in 2017, Varsho had a standout season in 2022 with 27 homers and 74 RBI for the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, his performance dipped slightly in 2023 with 20 homers and 61 RBI for the Blue Jays so far. Despite recent injury concerns, he remains a key player as Toronto fights for a playoff spot, currently trailing the New York Yankees by three games in the AL East.

In the latest updates, Varsho is expected back in the lineup soon, alongside fellow teammates recovering from injuries like Yimi Garcia and Bowden Francis. The Blue Jays are currently holding the second AL Wild Card spot and are hoping for a strong finish to the season, facing the Chicago White Sox in their upcoming series.