In a strategic decision, the Toronto Blue Jays have excluded Bo Bichette from their AL Division Series roster. The shortstop has been sidelined by a knee sprain sustained on September 6 while sliding into home plate at Yankee Stadium.
Bichette’s Injury Impact
Bo Bichette, 27, played a crucial role in leading the Blue Jays to a 94-win season and the American League East title in 2025. He rebounded well from a troublesome 2024 season, finishing this year with a .311 batting average, 18 home runs, and an .840 OPS. Despite hopes for his return, manager John Schneider confirmed that Bichette did not meet the necessary fitness criteria to be included in the roster against the New York Yankees.
Roster Adjustments
Alongside Bichette, veteran pitchers Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer will also miss the ALDS roster. Bassitt, who ended the regular season on the injured list due to back inflammation, hasn’t pitched since September 18. Scherzer’s exclusion follows a season marked by a 5.19 ERA over 85 innings, leading management to explore alternatives.
Blue Jays Pitching Strategy
- Kevin Gausman will start Game 1.
- Shane Bieber is scheduled for Game 2.
- Rookie Trey Yesavage will also start a game in the series.
- Eric Lauer, who had a 3.18 ERA, provides additional depth in the bullpen.
Manager Schneider expressed confidence in Gausman’s ability as a starter and has formulated a strategy that utilizes Yesavage effectively throughout the series. This decision to adjust pitching roles demonstrates the team’s adaptability in the face of injuries.
Yankees’ Roster Update
The New York Yankees made a minor modification to their roster. Luis Gil was added to start Game 1, replacing reliever Mark Leiter Jr. Max Fried is slated to pitch Game 2, with Carlos Rodon expected to start in Game 3.
As the playoff series begins, the Blue Jays enter with a reshaped roster, hoping to overcome the absence of key players, including Bichette, while aiming for success against a formidable Yankees team.
