Blue Jays Announce Roster for ALCS, Bo Bichette Omitted Due to Knee Injury
As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Seattle Mariners, the absence of star shortstop Bo Bichette looms large. Bichette, who has been recovering from a knee injury sustained during a collision with New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells on September 6, has not made the roster for the crucial series. The decision came after he felt discomfort while running the bases, marking his first attempt at the activity since the injury.
Bichette’s Injury and Season Performance
Bichette initially landed on the injured list on September 9, just as he was having a remarkable bounce-back season. Following a challenging 2024 campaign, during which his offensive numbers fell, he made a strong resurgence in 2025. Over 139 games, he maintained a batting average of .311, an on-base percentage of .357, and a slugging percentage of .483, alongside 18 home runs and 44 doubles, contributing to a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 3.4. This stellar performance has also positioned him as one of the most sought-after free agents in the upcoming winter season.
Strategic Adjustments for the ALCS
In the absence of Bichette, the Blue Jays face the challenge of advancing through the playoffs without their star player. During the ALDS, where they defeated the Yankees, Toronto successfully adapted by repositioning Andrés Giménez from second base to shortstop and inserting Ernie Clement as their starting second baseman. This strategy proved effective as Clement delivered outstanding offensive contributions, going 9 for 14 at the plate during the series.
Impact on the Upcoming Games
The Blue Jays are set to host the Mariners for Game 1 of the ALCS, with the first pitch scheduled for 8:03 p.m. ET on Sunday. The team’s ability to perform without Bichette will be closely scrutinized, as his absence raises questions about their offensive potential and overall chances of reaching the World Series.
Conclusion: A Critical Moment for the Blue Jays
The decision to exclude Bichette from the roster highlights the ongoing struggles with player injuries, which have plagued the team throughout the season. While Toronto showed resilience in the previous series, the playoffs present a new level of competition and will test the depth of their roster. As they prepare to face the Mariners, the Blue Jays must not only strategize effectively without Bichette but also keep their championship aspirations alive amidst the uncertainties of player health. The outcome of this series may significantly influence the team’s trajectory not only for the remainder of the season but also in defining future roster decisions as they eye the off-season free agency market.
