Bo Bichette: Could return as designated hitter with the Blue Jays

TAMPA, Fla. – Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette sought a second medical opinion on Monday regarding his injured knee and could initially return to the lineup as a designated hitter. Bichette, who has been out of action since September 7 due to a sprained left knee, was examined in Dallas on Monday by Dr. Dan Cooper. Blue Jays manager John Schneider indicated that there was nothing new to report, and that the appointment was simply part of the recovery process.

It doesn’t change the way we think. It gives him and us some clarity.

John SchneiderToronto (88-62) has the best record in the American League and a five-game lead in the American League East over the New York Yankees, with 12 games remaining. Bichette, 27, and a two-time All-Star, was injured on September 6 in a play at the plate against the Yankees and was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to September 7. The Blue Jays have emphasized patience, but Schneider acknowledged that Bichette could return as a designated hitter before he’s ready to play defense.

In a perfect world, if he can return and play shortstop, great. We’ll see how this goes. With the way he’s moving, it seems to me that hitting will be a little ahead of everything else. I think we’ll know more tomorrow or the day after, but if we can get his bat back, of course, I’ll take it.

John Schneider

Bichette was having a standout season before the injury, batting .311 with 18 home runs, 94 RBIs, and an OPS of .840 in 139 games. He leads the majors in hits (181) and doubles (44). Bichette, who can become a free agent after this year’s World Series, is the son of former Major League slugger Dante Bichette.