Toronto — blue Jays Manager John Schneider says he is optimistic george springer will be available against seattle mariners Sunday night in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series in Toronto.
“He’s feeling a lot better than yesterday,” Schneider said Saturday.
Springer, Toronto’s leadoff hitter, was hit in the right knee by a 95.6 mph pitch brian woo Lost 6-2 and left the game in the seventh inning Friday.
Seattle leads the best-of-seven series 3–2.
Springer, 36, a four-time All-Star, is hitting .256 with three home runs and five doubles this postseason. His 22 career playoff homers are tied for fourth with Bernie Williams.
Schneider said Springer received treatment Saturday and is expected to test his knee in a team workout.
“Just make sure it’s not causing him trouble swinging or trouble running,” Schneider said. “But he’s a tough guy, so I hope he’ll be good.”
Springer fell to the ground after being hit by Wu’s pitch and remained in the batter’s box while Schneider and trainer Drew McDonald came out of the dugout. Springer moved forward slowly at first, attempted to run a few steps, then left and was replaced by the pinch runner. joey loperfido,
Schneider said injured shortstop Bo Bichette still hasn’t run a base since backing out on an attempt last Saturday, the day before the ALCS began.
“You guys might have seen him in the outfield, but not on base yet,” Schneider told reporters. “He can do that today. But he’s definitely making progress. Definitely making progress with his swing as well.”
Bichette finished second in the major leagues New York Yankees, aaron judge With a .311 batting average.
Bichette has not played since being injured in a collision with Yankees catcher Austin Wells on September 6. He is eligible for free agency after the World Series.
