UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have officially left Bo Bichette off their roster for the American League Division Series (ALDS), a shocking blow just hours before their critical Game 1 against the New York Yankees.
Bichette, a crucial player who helped the Blue Jays achieve 94 wins and clinch the AL East title, suffered a knee sprain on September 6 and has not recovered in time. Despite hopes for his return, manager John Schneider confirmed that Bichette would not participate in the series, highlighting the team’s need for him to be at full capacity for a more significant role. “For him to be on, he’d have to play pretty regularly,” Schneider stated.
This decision comes just before the playoffs kick off, increasing pressure on Toronto’s lineup. Bichette, who batted .311 with 18 home runs and an .840 OPS this season, had shown promising recovery from an injury-plagued 2024. His absence leaves a notable gap as Ernie Clement and Andres Gimenez will split shortstop duties for the remainder of the series.
The Blue Jays also announced the exclusion of veteran pitchers Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer from their roster. Bassitt, who ended the regular season on the injured list due to back inflammation, hasn’t pitched since September 18. In contrast, Scherzer’s exclusion appears to be a tactical decision following a challenging season where he posted a 5.19 ERA over 85 innings.
Heading into the playoffs, the Blue Jays will rely on pitchers Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, and rookie Trey Yesavage, with Eric Lauer also available. Gausman is set to start Game 1 on Saturday, followed by Bieber on Sunday. Yesavage is expected to take the mound for Game 3 on Tuesday in New York, while Lauer may start or the team could opt for a bullpen strategy in a potential Game 4.
The Yankees have made minimal changes to their roster, adding Luis Gil while excluding reliever Mark Leiter Jr.. The stakes are high as both teams gear up for what promises to be an electrifying postseason showdown.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Blue Jays will adjust without their star shortstop. As the series unfolds, all eyes will be on Toronto’s ability to adapt and perform against a formidable Yankees lineup.
