Key Highlights
- The Toronto Blue Jays are set to take a 2-0 lead in the World Series after winning Game 1.
- Star infielder Bo Bichette is not starting due to an extended layoff but could be available off the bench.
- Veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt is dealing with a cut/blister on his pitching hand and remains available for any game.
- Bench coach Don Mattingly may consider retiring after making it to the World Series for the first time in his career.
Blue Jays Eyeing 2-0 Lead as They Head West
The Toronto Blue Jays are one victory away from clinching a historic World Series title, following their dominant win in Game 1 on October 24, 2025. Manager John Schneider expressed confidence that Bo Bichette will be ready to contribute off the bench despite an extended layoff stretching through the playoffs.
“He’ll be ready to play today, for sure,” Schneider said during a press conference, as relayed by Mitch Bannon of The Athletic. “But really, after the layoff, didn’t want to kill him, you know.” Bichette recorded a single and a walk in three plate appearances yesterday and is coming off a regular season where he slashed .311/.357/.483 in 139 games.
Chris Bassitt’s Blistering Pitching Hand
Veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt is dealing with a cut/blister on his pitching hand, but he remains available to pitch in any game. Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet reported that Bassitt moved to the bullpen for the postseason and could be used in high-leverage moments despite the injury.
While his mechanics might be impacted, Schneider noted the importance of keeping him active: “It wouldn’t be a shock if we tried to avoid using him in high leverage moments until we have confidence about how the blister is impacting his mechanics.” Bassitt has shown excellent work across three scoreless relief appearances this October.
Mattingly’s Possible Retirement After Historic Series
Bench coach Don Mattingly, known for his accomplished career as a player and manager, could be considering retirement after making it to the World Series for the first time. Jon Heyman of the New York Post notes that friends believe retirement is a possibility, but Mattingly himself remains vague on the matter.
“You never know, you never know,” was his response when asked about his future by Heyman. Mattingly earned an MVP award during his 14-year MLB career and spent an additional 12 years managing the Dodgers and Marlins, earning Manager of the Year honors for leading the Marlins to the playoffs through a challenging 2020 season.
The Blue Jays face Game 3 on Monday in Los Angeles with a chance to secure their second World Series title. The team’s strategy will be crucial as they balance Bichette’s availability and Bassitt’s condition while keeping Mattingly’s future uncertain.
