On March 30, 2026, Cody Ponce was carted off the field after suffering a knee injury during a game against the Colorado Rockies at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario. This incident occurred while he was attempting to field a ground ball hit by Jake McCarthy, resulting in the hyperextension of his right knee.
Ponce was making his first Major League Baseball (MLB) start since 2021, following a successful stint in the KBO League, where he achieved a remarkable 17-1 record and a 1.80 ERA in 2025. His performance in the KBO League earned him the MVP title, and he had recently signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Manager John Schneider expressed concern for Ponce after the injury, stating, “You feel for him,” and added, “It just sucks to see that happen to him.” Schneider noted that Ponce was excited about his return to MLB, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.
In response to Ponce’s injury, the Blue Jays recalled Lázaro Estrada from Triple-A Buffalo. Estrada had been performing well, with 2.2 scoreless innings and three strikeouts in his recent outings. He is expected to join the Blue Jays on Tuesday.
The Blue Jays have faced challenges this season, with multiple injuries impacting their pitching staff. Ponce’s injury may require him to be placed on the injured list, further complicating the team’s roster management.
As of now, the exact nature and severity of Cody Ponce’s knee injury remain unconfirmed. The team is awaiting further evaluation and diagnosis to determine the next steps for Ponce’s recovery and potential return to the field.
This sequence of events is significant for Ponce, who was eager to make a strong comeback in the MLB after his successful tenure in the KBO League. The injury not only affects his career trajectory but also has implications for the Blue Jays as they navigate a challenging season.
