Max Scherzer throws a bullpen session as Jays veteran works his back from forearm tendinitis

NEW YORK (AP) — Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer threw a bullpen session of about 22 pitches Monday at Yankee Stadium as he works his way back from right forearm tendinitis, and he could face batters this week.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider said the 41-year-old right-hander will throw another bullpen session Wednesday. If that goes well, the next step likely would be batting practice.

“But you never know with Max,” Schneider said before Monday’s series opener against the Yankees.

Scherzer re-signed with the Blue Jays on a $3 million, one-year contract after helping them reach Game 7 of the World Series. He is 1-3 with a 9.24 ERA in five starts, the last on April 24.

Right-hander Shane Bieber, sidelined since spring training with right elbow inflammation, is to throw batting practice Tuesday, about 30 pitches simulating two innings.

Alejandro Kirk, who broke his left thumb April 3 when hit by a foul tip, caught Bieber’s most recent side session. When he got hurt, Kirk was projected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks.

“He’s continuing to catch, throw, hit. Not fully hitting regular BP yet, but making progress,” Schneider said.

Right-hander Yimi García is to throw a bullpen session Tuesday as he returns from elbow surgery late last season.

Outfielder Nathan Lukes, sidelined since April 24 by a strained left hamstring, is to be a DH with Class A Dunedin on Tuesday, then play the outfield in a couple of games.

Addison Barger, an outfielder and third baseman who hasn’t played since May 9 because of right elbow inflammation, had a cortisone shot. He was in Toronto for a followup with a doctor Tuesday, when he could be cleared to start hitting and throwing.

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The Associated Press