Bieber Shines in Jays Debut After Surgery: 9 Strikeouts vs Marlins

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In a night that marked his triumphant return, Shane Bieber demonstrated his dominance on the mound by striking out nine batters in six solid innings. His performance was key to the Blue Jays’ victory over the Marlins with a score of 5-2. This encounter marked Bieber’s return after 16 months out of action, a period marked by Tommy John surgery and a long recovery process.

Today, I feel gratitude for all the journey taken with my family and my support team, who push me every day. It’s incredible to share this moment with them.

Shane Bieber
Bieber’s last appearance in the Major Leagues had been on April 2, 2024, at which point he felt discomfort in his elbow that forced him to undergo surgery. In his outstanding performance, the pitcher allowed only two hits and struck out one batter, needing 87 pitches to complete his outing. After conceding a solo home run to Javier Sanoja in the second inning, Bieber managed to retire 12 batters in a row.

From the first release, I went back to doing what I love. I found the rhythm quickly and was happy with the result. I’m glad I started on the right foot and keep going.

Shane Bieber
Bieber threw 55 of his pitches for strikes, primarily using a combination of 26 four-seam fastballs and 25 sliders, which allowed him to generate 15 swings and misses.

Finding the rhythm is crucial for pitching. I was able to do it early with my fastball, and the second time I faced the order, the spin improved. Overall, I’m very happy with how tonight went.

Shane Bieber
Bieber’s team benefited from early offensive support, thanks to a double by Daulton Varsho and a two-run single by Ty France in the first inning.

With those three pitches, I was able to focus on throwing strikes, getting ahead, and accumulating innings to go deep into the game.

Shane Bieber
Before the game, Toronto manager John Schneider indicated that Bieber was scheduled to throw around 100 pitches in his return, but he was satisfied with the final total.

I think it was a good outing for him to build on. I’m happy for Shane. It’s been a long road back.

John Schneider
The Blue Jays acquired the 2020 American League Cy Young Award winner from the Cleveland Guardians on July 31. Bieber had four rehab starts with the Guardians before the trade and three since joining the Blue Jays.

I have finished my rehabilitation and I am here to compete and win.

Shane Bieber
Bieber, 30, spent his first seven seasons with Cleveland. In the 60-game season of 2020, he finished with an 8-1 record, a 1.63 ERA (lowest in the league), and led the American League in strikeouts with 122.
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