Blue Jays pitchers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt have rejoined the team for the American League Championship Series against Seattle, while shortstop Bo Bichette remains sidelined with a left knee sprain. The 26-man rosters for both teams were announced ahead of Game 1 at Rogers Centre on Sunday night.
Manager John Schneider stated that Scherzer is expected to be prepared for a starting role or a significant appearance, with Bassitt available in the bullpen for various situations. Schneider emphasized the importance of having both pitchers ready for any scenario during the intense playoff games.
In Game 2, the Blue Jays will start rookie Trey Yesavage, followed by Shane Bieber in Game 3 when the series shifts to Seattle. The starting rotation order remains consistent with the one used in the previous division series victory over the New York Yankees, with Kevin Gausman taking the mound for the opener.
While Schneider did not confirm a Game 4 starter, he hinted that Scherzer is likely to play a role. Scherzer, an eight-time all-star, had a mixed performance this season, going 5-5 with a 5.19 ERA in 17 starts, overcoming a mid-season injury hiatus.
Bassitt, on the other hand, recorded an 11-9 record with a 3.96 ERA in 32 appearances, with a brief stint on the injured list due to lower-back inflammation. Bichette, the team’s top hitter with 181 hits this season, is progressing towards a return but was not ready for Game 1 due to ongoing discomfort from his knee injury.
With the series underway, the Mariners have made roster adjustments, adding all-star pitcher Bryan Woo and utility player Miles Mastrobuoni while removing Luke Raley and Ben Williamson. Woo, who last pitched on Sept. 19 due to an injury, had an impressive regular season with a 15-7 record and a 2.94 ERA.
After a grueling five-game series against Detroit, the Mariners arrived in Toronto late Saturday night. The Blue Jays are aiming for their first ALCS title since 2016, with the ultimate goal of securing their first World Series victory since 1993.