Bo Bichette’s Return to Blue Jays Lineup Remains Uncertain

NEW YORK — Bo Bichette, the Toronto Blue Jays‘ starting shortstop, is hoping to return to action later this postseason after suffering a left knee sprain last month. The two-time All-Star has not played since September 6, when he sustained the injury during a game against the New York Yankees.

As the Blue Jays prepare for their playoff series against the Yankees, manager John Schneider provided a cautious update on Bichette’s recovery. “The last three days have been pretty positive for him. Running today for the first time,” Schneider said on Wednesday. He emphasized taking it day by day while monitoring Bichette’s progress.

Bichette participated in a simulated game in Toronto earlier this week, which included facing live pitching. However, he did not accompany the team to New York to continue his rehabilitation closer to home. Instead, he is focusing on critical steps in his recovery, like running the bases and hitting high-velocity pitches.

“He’s still progressing… trying to ramp up, doing everything he can to kind of get himself ready,” said Schneider.

Bichette ended the regular season with a batting average of .311, 18 home runs, and a team-leading 94 RBIs over 139 games. His absence leaves the Blue Jays without one of their most potent hitters as they seek to advance in the playoffs.

Despite the challenges, the Blue Jays found success in the early rounds, scoring an impressive 23 runs against the Yankees. Guerrero Jr., a close teammate of Bichette, expressed his desire for the shortstop’s return. “We miss him, and he knows we miss him. Whatever God has for us, we’ve got to take. I hope we can win this series and he comes back for the next one,” he said.

The Blue Jays will host Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Saturday at 4:08 p.m. ET, against the Yankees. If Toronto advances, there may be an opportunity for Bichette to return this postseason.