Coming into spring training, it appeared to be a three-horse race between Ryan Borucki, Trent Thornton, and Shun Yamaguchi for the final spot in the Blue Jays starting rotation. Borucki was quickly eliminated from the race after suffering tightness in his problematic throwing elbow even though it was deemed precautionary.
The setback officially took Borucki out of the running and before the season was delayed it appeared that Thornton was going to come away with the job. However, Borucki was reportedly pain-free and throwing again before the campaign was halted.