Bo Bichette Excluded from Blue Jays Roster for ALCS Showdown with Mariners

The Toronto Blue Jays will face the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) starting Sunday. However, the team will do so without their star shortstop, Bo Bichette. The Blue Jays announced his exclusion from the 26-man roster ahead of Game 1.

Bo Bichette’s Injury Status

Bo Bichette has been sidelined since early September due to a knee sprain. This injury also kept him out of the American League Division Series (ALDS). The team had hoped for his return after he began light running at Yankee Stadium before Game 4. He even participated in live batting practice in Toronto the day prior to the ALCS opener.

Discomfort During Practice

Concerns about Bichette’s ability to play intensified Saturday when he was seen running the bases for the first time. During this drill, he appeared to experience discomfort. The incident was captured on video by Sportsnet, showing Bichette grimacing after rounding second base and subsequently slowing down.

Afterward, he walked to third base, where Blue Jays coaching staff, including bench coach Don Mattingly and first base coach Mark Budzinski, assessed his condition. Following a brief discussion, Bichette left the field looking visibly frustrated.

Impact on the Team

The absence of the two-time All-Star is a significant blow to a Blue Jays lineup that has showcased impressive offensive power. In their previous four post-season games, the team scored 34 runs. Before his injury, Bichette had a batting average of .311, with a .357 on-base percentage and a .483 slugging percentage over 139 games. He led Major League Baseball in hits and doubles, finishing second in both categories despite missing the last 20 games of the regular season.

Upcoming Game Details

As the Blue Jays prepare for Game 1, they must strategize without one of their key players. The team’s performance will be closely watched in this crucial series against the Mariners.