BREAKING: The Toronto Blue Jays have just announced that outfielder Anthony Santander will not play in Game 2 of the AL Championship Series today, October 16, 2023, due to a sore lower back. This sudden change comes after a disappointing opener against the Seattle Mariners, where the Blue Jays managed only two hits in a 3-1 loss.
In Santander’s absence, Davis Schneider is set to step in as the starting left fielder. Ernie Clement will move up to the seventh spot in the batting order, while Schneider will bat eighth. Fans will be eager to see how this reshuffling impacts the Blue Jays’ performance in this critical game.
Nathan Lukes returns to the lineup after suffering a bruised right knee in the previous game. He was replaced by Myles Straw after the injury but is now ready to contribute as the team seeks to even the series.
Last offseason, Santander signed a lucrative $92.5 million contract with Toronto, but his season has been challenging. After missing nearly four months due to a left shoulder injury, he has struggled at the plate, hitting just .175 with six home runs and 18 RBIs over 54 games. His postseason performance has also been underwhelming, with a batting average of .231 (3 for 13) and no home runs in four playoff games.
The Blue Jays are feeling the pressure to bounce back after their Game 1 defeat. Fans are hopeful that the lineup adjustments will spark a turnaround. Game time is set for 4:07 PM ET, and all eyes will be on how the team’s strategy unfolds without Santander.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and follow this pivotal game for the Blue Jays in the ALCS.
