Bo Bichette, the Toronto Blue Jays’ shortstop, is reportedly making significant strides in his recovery. As the Jays prepare for an important ALCS Game Seven, manager John Schneider noted Bichette’s improvement, which offers hope for his potential return.
Timeline of Bichette’s Injury
Bichette’s season was disrupted by a collision with Yankees catcher Austin Wells in early September. This incident resulted in a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, sidelining him since then. Despite his absence, the Jays advanced to the playoffs and are now vying for a spot in the World Series.
Impact of His Return
Tonight’s game against the Seattle Mariners is critical for the Jays. If they succeed, they may have a few days before the World Series starts on Friday. This additional time could benefit Bichette’s recovery. His return to the lineup would provide a significant offensive boost. During the regular season, he boasted an impressive batting average of .311, along with a .357 on-base percentage and a .483 slugging percentage, leading to a 134 wRC+.
Team Dynamics and Potential Changes
However, Bichette’s return poses challenging decisions for the coaching staff. George Springer is also dealing with an injury after a foul ball impacted his knee, affecting his defensive play. While Springer can still serve as a designated hitter, the team can only accommodate one of them in that role. This could force the Jays to adjust their defensive lineup.
Roster Considerations
- Davis Schneider has seen limited action in the ALCS due to a lack of need for his platoon role against the Mariners.
- The arrival of the Dodgers, who have more left-handed pitchers, could make Schneider more valuable in the World Series.
- Decisions may also emerge regarding the pitching staff, especially with Chris Bassitt’s recent bullpen use and potential roster cuts.
Looking Ahead
On a personal note, returning to play would not only contribute to the team’s success but also benefit Bichette as he approaches free agency. Staying healthy and performing well before the offseason could mitigate concerns from prospective teams about his history of injuries. Past lower body issues, including right knee and quad injuries in 2023, have already raised questions about his long-term viability as a shortstop.
Future Rotation Considerations
In other news, José Berríos will not participate in the World Series. He has started throwing again after dealing with elbow inflammation, but his season has ended. As the Jays anticipate potential losses in their pitching rotation—specifically, free agency impacts on players like Bassitt and Max Scherzer—they must also contemplate Berríos’ reintegrated role come 2026. Current rotation prospects include Kevin Gausman and Trey Yesavage, with young talents also vying for positions.
The Blue Jays face a pivotal moment in their playoff journey, with the potential return of Bo Bichette weighing heavily on their strategies and the future of the team.
