Blue Jays & Phillies Both Considering Significant Moves With Their Rotations

As both the Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays continue to sit near the very top of the league's standings, the return of All-Star right-handers Aaron Nola and Shane Bieber could lead to shifts in their starting rotations. 

Nola, who has been sidelined since mid-May with a sprained ankle and a stress fracture in his rib, is set to return after three rehab outings. The Phillies may consider a six-man rotation to accommodate Nola's return while preserving the health of their starters, particularly with a jam-packed schedule ahead. 

Aaron Nola will make his third rehab start on Tuesday night for AAA Lehigh Valley. pic.twitter.com/YKDXxGkQHs

— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) August 11, 2025

With Nola’s past struggles this season, particularly a rough start before his injury, manager Rob Thomson might lean toward keeping a well-rested rotation for the stretch run. However, with Taijuan Walker's success, he might continue in a long-relief role if the six-man setup is implemented.

Six-Man Rotation on the Horizon for Phillies and Blue Jays

On the other hand, Shane Bieber's return to the Toronto Blue Jays comes after a long recovery from Tommy John surgery. Since being traded to Toronto from the Cleveland Guardians, Bieber has been rehabbing in Triple-A, with Blue Jays manager John Schneider hinting at a possible six-man rotation for a brief period. 

The Blue Jays' rotation, which includes reliable arms like Kevin Gausman and José Berríos, could benefit from extra rest during the final stretch of the season. However, balancing rest and maintaining strong performances will be key, as long layoffs between starts might disrupt the consistency of their workhorses.

Shane Bieber continues his rehab assignment for the @BuffaloBisons!

The @BlueJays' right-hander whiffs 6 over 5 2/3 frames in his second appearance for his new organization. pic.twitter.com/I7ItjfAaCX

— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) August 9, 2025

Despite the appeal of a six-man rotation, both teams face challenges in terms of performance and fitting in their starters. In Philadelphia, Walker’s strong pitching in 2025 and the recent success of their starters could mean they stick to a five-man rotation once Nola returns. 

Meanwhile, the Blue Jays are leaning toward additional rest for their veteran arms like Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt while easing Bieber back into form.

Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images