The Toronto Blue Jays are focused on securing a 2-0 lead in the World Series after their impressive victory in Game 1. However, they will face this challenge without their star infielder Bo Bichette, who will be resting despite being activated from an extended absence that lasted through the regular season and into the playoffs. Blue Jays manager John Schneider explained that the decision to give Bichette a day off is to manage his workload following his long layoff.
“He’ll be ready to play today, for sure,” Schneider stated. “But really, after the layoff, didn’t want to kill him, you know.” While Bichette, known for his exceptional performance in the regular season, won’t start today, he is reportedly feeling better than expected and has expressed his availability off the bench. In the regular season, Bichette boasted an impressive batting average of .311 and had a solid outing in Game 1, recording a single and a walk.
With Bichette resting, Isiah Kiner-Falefa will start at second base, batting eighth in the lineup. This strategic decision allows the Blue Jays to conserve Bichette for potentially crucial moments throughout the seven-game series, especially with a travel day ahead before Game 3 in Los Angeles on Monday.
In addition to Bichette, the Blue Jays are also monitoring veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, who is dealing with a cut and blister on his pitching hand. Despite this issue, Bassitt is available for Game 2 after moving to the bullpen for the postseason. His ability to contribute is a positive sign for the team, given his success in previous scoreless relief appearances this October. However, the Blue Jays may take precautionary measures to limit his usage in high-stakes situations until they’re confident in how the injury could affect his performance.
Off the field, speculation surrounds Blue Jays bench coach Don Mattingly, who might be contemplating retirement after a career that recently led him to the World Series for the first time. Friends close to Mattingly have hinted that retirement could be a possibility after this season, although he remains noncommittal, stating, “You never know, you never know.” Mattingly’s storied career, marked by an MVP award and several managerial accolades, has made him a respected figure in baseball, and his potential departure could leave a significant void in the organization.
As the Blue Jays prepare for Game 2, fans remain hopeful for their continued success in the World Series, particularly with key players both active and available for pivotal moments.