The Blue Jays welcomed back pitchers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt to their roster for the American League Championship Series against Seattle, while shortstop Bo Bichette remained sidelined with a left knee sprain. Both teams unveiled their 26-man rosters in anticipation of Game 1 at Rogers Centre.
Manager John Schneider revealed that Scherzer is expected to be geared up for a starting role or long appearance, with Bassitt ready in the bullpen for any situation. Schneider emphasized the importance of having both pitchers available for critical moments in the games.
In the upcoming matchups, rookie Trey Yesavage is set to start Game 2, and Shane Bieber will take the mound in Game 3 in Seattle. The starting order remains consistent with the previous division series victory over the New York Yankees, with Kevin Gausman leading the way in the opener.
Although Schneider didn’t confirm a Game 4 starter, he hinted at Scherzer likely playing a role. Scherzer, an eight-time all-star, had a mixed season with a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA, while Bassitt posted an 11-9 record with a 3.96 ERA before being sidelined due to back issues.
Bichette’s return timeline remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a left knee sprain suffered earlier. Despite progress in recent activities like running and simulated games, Bichette’s readiness for gameplay is still pending.
The Mariners made roster adjustments, adding Bryan Woo and Miles Mastrobuoni while replacing Luke Raley and Ben Williamson. Woo, an all-star right-hander, brings formidable pitching stats to the Mariners’ lineup.
Both teams are primed for an intense series, with the Blue Jays eyeing their first ALCS victory since 2016 and aiming to break their World Series drought dating back to 1993.