Get ready for some Blue Jays baseball drama! The team's recent success against the Yankees in the ALDS has everyone buzzing, but there's a key player missing from the lineup: shortstop Bo Bichette. With an injured left knee, Bichette has been on the sidelines since early September, and his return is a hot topic as the Jays prepare for the ALCS against the Mariners.
But here's where it gets controversial... Bichette has been hitting and running the bases, but his response to this increased activity will determine if he makes the ALCS roster. Jays manager John Schneider says the decision on Bichette will be one of the last made before rosters are announced. And this is the part most people miss: Bichette still seemed uncomfortable running the bases, which could limit him to a designated hitter (DH) role if he returns.
If Bichette is indeed confined to DH, it creates a tricky situation for the Jays' outfield. George Springer would likely move to the outfield, pushing out another outfielder like Nathan Lukes or Anthony Santander. This move would only be made if the Jays are confident Bichette can contribute significantly at the plate. But what if Bichette isn't quite ready? The Jays could still roster him, but there's a big risk: if he goes back on the injured list during the ALCS, he won't be eligible for the World Series if the Jays advance.
Now, let's talk about the rotation. Toronto made a bold move by leaving veteran starters Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer off their ALDS roster. Both had understandable reasons for being left out: Scherzer struggled late in the year, and Bassitt wasn't fully prepared after an injury in late September. But for a seven-game series, the Jays need more length, and Schneider has confirmed that both Bassitt and Scherzer are in the mix for the club's roster.
All these roster decisions will be made by 9 a.m. CT tomorrow, and it's anyone's guess who will make the cut. So, what do you think? Should Bichette be rushed back, or is it better to play it safe? And what about the rotation? Are you confident in the Jays' choices? Let's discuss in the comments!
