Overview
- Kirk will start a rehab assignment with Single‑A Dunedin as a designated hitter, a move reported Wednesday after he cleared live batting practice and live‑pitch hitting.
- The Blue Jays plan a careful progression that keeps Kirk at DH initially and requires an extended run of catching reps without setbacks before he is activated.
- Rookie Brandon Valenzuela and veteran Tyler Heineman have split catching duties during Kirk’s absence, creating a difficult backup decision once Kirk resumes regular catching work.
- Three veteran starters — Dylan Cease, Max Scherzer and Shane Bieber — are set for Triple‑A Buffalo rehab starts this week, which will create parallel return timelines and rotation choices.
- Kirk’s return could lift the lineup and locker room as Toronto stays near the wild‑card mix, but the club must balance immediate performance with roster depth and long‑term options.