The Toronto Blue Jays are about to play the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, and the team could activate Bo Bichette to play. With his impending return, many expect a Bo Bichette World Series start at designated hitter. But MLB insider Jon Morosi sees a different role for the star in the Blue Jays' World Series battle with Los Angeles.
“Bo Bichette told me that moments after that game, I'm good to go, I'm ready,” Morosi stated. “Here's what I would say, this series begins, in my opinion, with him in a reserve role on the bench as a potential late-game pinch hitter.”
Bichette has missed the playoffs because of a knee injury he sustained while sliding into home plate on September 6. Before the injury, he was having a great season, batting .311 with 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and 78 runs. Bichette will get a chance to contribute to the Blue Jays' World Series title hopes as he figures to enter the lineup at one point.
With Bichette out, the Jays have adjusted with a different lineup. Guerrero has been at first base as always, with Isiah Kiner-Falefa at second base, Andrés Giménez at shortstop, and Ernie Clement at third base. George Springer has been the designated hitter. If Bichette returns to the starting lineup, he could slot in as a DH if he is not ready to return to the field. Kiner-Falefa could likely be the odd man out, but the Jays have not announced any lineup decisions yet. For now, Morosi has reasons why he believes Bichette should start the World Series off the bench.
“Andrés Giménez's defense at shortstop has been difference-making,” Morosi noted. “I would not change a thing with the starting infield.”
The Jays will have their star back and could choose to utilize him in different ways. Whatever they decide will ultimately depend on Bichette's health and the matchup advantage possibilities. The Blue Jays will play Game 1 of the World Series against the Dodgers on Friday, October 22 at Rogers Centre.
