The Blue Jays faltered in Game 1 of their AL Wild Card Series, falling 4-0 to the Mariners on Friday. Not only does the team face a must-win situation on Saturday, it is also possible that they could be without center fielder George Springer.
The Toronto star was hit in the left hand by a Luis Castillo fastball in the eighth inning of Game 1. The pitch got away from Castillo, running in and hitting Springer. The outfielder appeared to be in significant pain but stayed in the game.
It is a situation to monitor as the Blue Jays need all of the offense they can muster in Game 2. Springer had two of the team's seven hits against Seattle on Friday, finishing 2 for 3 as he got on base three times in four plate appearances.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider said after the game that he hopes Springer will be "good to go" for Saturday's pivotal matchup.
MORE: Blue Jays playoff schedule for 2022
Toronto's leadoff man batted .267 with 25 home runs and 76 RBIs during the regular season. He brings lots of postseason experience, a big reason why the Blue Jays signed him as a free agent two years ago.
What is George Springer's injury?
Springer was hit in the left hand by a Castillo pitch in the eighth inning of Game 1 on Friday. He appeared to be in pain, but after a conversation with the trainer and Schneider, Springer stayed in.
Springer later had X-rays for a wrist fracture, but the fact he stayed in the game is a good sign for Toronto.
Will George Springer play in Game 2?
It is unknown whether Springer will be available for Saturday's game. The X-rays on his wrist were negative.
George Springer had x-rays on his left wrist. They came back negative #BlueJays
— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) October 7, 2022
If Springer is not able to play, it is possible that Whit Merrifield will shift to the outfield and Santiago Espinal will play second base. The Blue Jays will be facing left-hander Robbie Ray in Game 2.
Blue Jays playoff schedule
The Blue Jays' Wild Card Series continues with Game 2 on Saturday, Oct. 8. Game 3 (if necessary) will be on Sunday, Oct. 9.
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | Matchup/score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Friday, Oct. 7 | 4:07 p.m. | Mariners 4, Blue Jays 0 |
| Game 2 | Saturday, Oct. 8 | 4:07 p.m. | Blue Jays vs. Mariners |
| Game 3 (if necessary) | Sunday, Oct. 9 | 2:07 p.m. | Blue Jays vs. Mariners |
