Blue Jays’ manager John Schneider shook up the starting lineup for Game 2 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Infielder Bo Bichette, returning after a seven-week absence, was on the bench. Isiah Kiner-Falefa took over at second base, while outfielders Nathan Lukes and Addison Barger replaced Davis Schneider and Myles Straw.
Bichette, normally a shortstop, made his first start at second base in the big leagues after being added to the 26-man roster for Game 1. He had been sidelined due to a left knee sprain.
Schneider mentioned in a pre-game media briefing that he wanted to ease Bichette back after his break and felt the player was physically ready. Bichette was praised for his performance in Game 1 and was expected to contribute both defensively and offensively.
Kevin Gausman and Yoshinobu Yamamoto were scheduled to start Game 2, with Max Scherzer confirmed for Game 3 and Shane Bieber for Game 4. If needed, Game 5 would be held in Los Angeles, while Games 6 and 7 would take place in Toronto.
In Game 1, Bichette singled in the first inning and later hit into a double play. He drew a walk in the sixth inning before being substituted by Kiner-Falefa. Bichette had an impressive .311 batting average and led Toronto with 181 hits during the past season.