UPDATE: Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette is eyeing a return to the lineup as a designated hitter while recovering from a left knee injury. Just moments ago, reports confirmed that Bichette sought a second opinion on his condition from renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Dan Cooper in Dallas.
Bichette has been sidelined since September 7, 2023, due to a sprained knee, and his potential return is crucial for the Blue Jays as they battle for playoff positioning. The team currently boasts the best record in the American League at 87-62, leading the New York Yankees by four games in the AL East with only 13 games left in the season.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider noted that while there is no new information following the appointment, it offers clarity for both Bichette and the team. “It doesn’t change our thinking,” Schneider stated before the game against the Tampa Bay Rays. “It gives him and us some clarity.”
Bichette, a two-time All-Star, sustained his injury while attempting to score against the Yankees on September 6. He was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactively effective from September 7. Schneider acknowledged that while the team is exercising patience, there’s a possibility Bichette could return to bat before he is fully ready to play shortstop.
“In a perfect world, if he can come back and play short, great,” Schneider said. “With how he’s moving, it seems to me that hitting will be a little bit in front of everything else.”
The urgency for Bichette’s return is palpable. Prior to his injury, he was having a stellar season, boasting a batting average of .311 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs across 139 games. He also leads the majors with 181 hits and 44 doubles.
As the postseason approaches, every game counts, and the Blue Jays’ chances could dramatically improve with Bichette back in the lineup. He is set to become a free agent after the World Series, adding another layer of significance to his performance and recovery.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates in the coming days. If Bichette can return to the plate, it could provide a significant boost as the Blue Jays aim for a deep playoff run.
Stay tuned as we monitor this developing story for further updates on Bo Bichette’s recovery and return to action.