UPDATE: Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer will not start in Game 5 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers this afternoon, but there’s a glimmer of hope as he could be available off the bench. This decision comes after Springer missed Game 4 due to right side discomfort, an injury he sustained during Game 3.
Manager John Schneider confirmed that Springer is feeling significantly better than expected. “George is feeling better,” Schneider stated this afternoon. “I think better than he expected to feel, better than we expected him to feel, which is saying a lot.”
Springer, who is crucial to the Blue Jays’ postseason success and has a batting average of .273 in the World Series, did some hitting and running in the batting cage earlier today. However, he will be replaced by Bo Bichette as the designated hitter for Game 5, while Isiah Kiner-Falefa will take over at second base.
The veteran outfielder, aged 36, left Monday’s game against the Dodgers after an awkward swing in the seventh inning of an exhausting 18-inning contest. With the series scheduled to take a day off on Thursday, there’s optimism that Springer could recover in time for Game 6 in Toronto on October 27, 2023.
Schneider praised Springer’s contributions, both on the field and as a leader in the clubhouse. “He’s had an unbelievable year, and I think that he has done a phenomenal job of kind of setting the tone for us,” he remarked. “It’s been fun to watch him after a tough year last year.”
This development is crucial for Blue Jays fans as they aim to maintain momentum in the World Series, currently tied at 2-2. Springer’s absence is felt deeply, but the possibility of his return for future games adds a layer of excitement and urgency to the series.
Stay tuned for live updates as the game unfolds, and watch for any late-breaking news regarding Springer’s status and the Blue Jays’ performance in this pivotal matchup.
