Springer Optimistic for Game 6
Blue Jays manager John Schneider is optimistic about George Springer’s availability for Game 6 against the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series. “It feels much better than yesterday,” Schneider declared on Saturday. Springer, Toronto’s leadoff hitter, was hit on the right knee by a 95.6 mph pitch from Bryan Woo in the seventh inning of Friday’s 6-2 loss and had to leave the game. Seattle leads the best-of-seven series 3-2. The 36-year-old, four-time All-Star, is batting .256 with three home runs and five doubles this postseason. His 22 career playoff home runs tie him with Bernie Williams for fourth place. Schneider reported that Springer received treatment on Saturday and was expected to test his knee in a team practice.Springer collapsed after being hit by Woo’s pitch and remained in the batter’s box while Schneider and coach Drew MacDonald came out of the dugout. Springer walked with difficulty towards first, tried to run a few steps, then retired and was replaced by pinch runner Joey Loperfido. Schneider also commented on the situation of injured shortstop Bo Bichette, who has yet to run the bases since he was injured the Saturday before the start of the ALCS. “You’ve probably seen it in the outfield, but not in the bases yet,” Schneider told reporters. “He might do it today. But he’s definitely progressing. He’s definitely progressing with his swing as well.” Bichette finished second in the Major Leagues, behind Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees, with a batting average of .311. Bichette hasn’t played since he was injured in a collision on September 6 with Yankees catcher Austin Wells. He is eligible for free agency after the World Series.You just have to make sure he’s not bothered by batting and running, but he’s a tough guy, so I have hope and optimism that he’ll be ready to play.
John Schneider
