General manager Ross Atkins said Wednesday that Pearson will be assessed this week to determine whether a procedure is required to address a sports hernia, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports.

EDGE Analysis

Pearson dealt with a groin injury in August but rejoined the major-league club for the final month of the season and felt strong to close out the year. The right-hander served mainly as a reliever in 2021, but Atkins said that the team still views him as a multi-inning pitcher. It's not yet clear whether he'll join the starting rotation in 2022, but Atkins also indicated that the Blue Jays will consider Pearson's health and workload when determining his role.