The Toronto Blue Jays are taking precautions with pitcher Max Scherzer as he recovers from back tightness. Scherzer, who left his last game after four innings due to discomfort, will have his next start postponed by one day. He was originally scheduled to pitch on Saturday against the New York Yankees but will now take the mound on Sunday.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider announced the change during his regular Friday radio segment. Chris Bassitt will start in Scherzer's place on Saturday. This adjustment comes as the Blue Jays prepare for a crucial three-game series against the Yankees, where they aim to extend their three-game lead in the American League East.

Kevin Gausman is set to start the series opener on Friday night in the Bronx. Schneider expressed confidence in Scherzer's condition, noting that he threw a side session earlier in the week while the team was in Cincinnati. Scherzer had previously described the tightness in his back as affecting his pitching mechanics.

“It was affecting the way I was getting through the ball,” Scherzer said after his last outing. He explained that the discomfort caused him to lose sharpness in his pitches, leading to mistakes that allowed opposing batters to capitalize.

Despite the setback, Scherzer downplayed concerns about the injury being a long-term issue. However, until he returns to game action, there will be some uncertainty regarding his health.

In addition to the rotation changes, the Blue Jays made a roster move ahead of the series. Right-handed pitcher Braydon Fisher has been recalled from Triple-A Buffalo to bolster the bullpen. Dillon Tate, who was with the team in Cincinnati, has been optioned back to the minors.