Blue Jays Prepare for World Series Amid Injury Concerns
TORONTO — The Blue Jays are heading to the World Series, but not without some challenges, particularly the absence of one of their top hitters during the playoffs.
There’s hope for a turnaround on Friday, but serious questions linger about Bo Bichette’s position on the field and how well he’ll perform following a lengthy injury break.
Bichette trained at Rogers Centre on Thursday, which was anticipated to be the last step before he joins the Blue Jays for Game 1 against the Dodgers later that night.
“After today’s training, I should have a better understanding of my status,” Bichette mentioned before the workout. “I’m just focused on being as prepared as possible for whatever I can contribute. I want to help the team in any way I can.”
He hasn’t played since September 6, when he injured his left knee in a collision with Yankees catcher Austin Wells.
Manager John Schneider indicated that Bichette, a right-handed hitter with a .311 average and .840 OPS during the regular season, might be slotted at shortstop (his primary position), second base (although he hasn’t played in Triple-A since 2019), or as a designated hitter.
Bringing him back into the lineup would mean someone else might have to sit out, possibly moving George Springer—who’s been limping since a knee injury during the ALCS—from DH to right field.
Every option was being weighed by the Blue Jays on Thursday.
“Whether you’ve played recently or not, players are likely feeling emotions they haven’t faced before,” Schneider observed. “From my talks with Bo, he seems quite realistic about how he feels and how it might be once he steps back onto the field. That’s a crucial aspect we need to navigate. As long as he feels comfortable, we’ll figure it out,” he added, nodding to the possibility of Bichette playing second base.
In another development, the Dodgers may face challenges without some of their top relievers for at least the series opener.
The team announced on Thursday evening that left-hander Alex Beshear would be stepping away to address personal family issues.
Manager Dave Roberts stated they are still evaluating roster options, including whether Beshear might be available at any point.
“Right now, we’re just trying to grasp the process and the rules surrounding the roster,” Roberts explained. “We are working on how to fill his spot.”
The Blue Jays have taken particular care when facing Aaron Judge this season, perhaps suggesting they’ll adopt an even more cautious approach with Shohei Ohtani.
“I think we’re dealing with a different kind of player here—someone who can do things on the field that few can. So, respect to Aaron Judges and Cal Lowries,” Schneider concluded.
