The Blue Jays introduced that they’ve positioned shortstop Bo Bichette on the 10-day injured checklist, retroactive to August 1, on account of proper patellar tendinitis. His roster spot will go to newly-acquired shortstop Paul DeJong, whereas the membership additionally recalled right-hander Thomas Hatch and optioned righty Nate Pearson. Keegan Matheson of MLB.com and Shi Davidi of Sportsnet relayed the small print previous to the official announcement.
The Jays haven’t launched any details about how lengthy they anticipate Bichette to be out of motion, however it is going to be a blow to the membership regardless. He suffered the damage on Monday, pulling up after rounding first and attempting to cease to return to the bag. Yesterday, supervisor John Schneider stated there was “no vital structural injury” and that the membership was nonetheless deciding on an IL stint. It now appears they’ve made the decision to let Bichette have at the least a week-plus to relaxation his knee.
The truth that the IL stint was a troublesome resolution maybe signifies he’s in for a fast keep, however that may nonetheless be an unwelcome growth for the membership. Bichette is hitting .321/.352/.494 this 12 months for a wRC+ of 135, the very best such mark amongst certified shortstops this 12 months. The Jays must proceed with out that manufacturing for slightly bit as they’ve some key divisional matchups. They’ve two extra video games in opposition to the Orioles, after dropping the primary two of the four-game set, earlier than heading to Fenway Park for 3 in opposition to the Purple Sox. The Jays maintain a Wild Card spot within the American League however Boston are only a sport and a half again coming into right this moment’s motion.
For now, the Jays will attempt to proceed with DeJong in Bichette’s spot. He was simply acquired from the Cardinals at yesterday’s deadline, doubtless spurred on by Bichette’s damage, and is within the lineup at shortstop tonight. He has bounced again from a very tough exhibiting final 12 months, when he hit .157/.245/.286 whereas hanging out in 33.3% of his plate appearances. He’s dropped the strikeout price to twenty-eight.4% this 12 months whereas slashing .233/.297/.412. His wRC+ of 96 remains to be a bit beneath common however is miles higher than his 55 wRC+ from final 12 months.
Even with the bounceback, DeJong’s offensive numbers nonetheless pale compared to Bichette’s. DeJong’s glovework is mostly thought of stronger between the 2, which ought to make up a number of the distinction, but it surely’s unquestionably a problem for the Jays. As soon as Bichette is wholesome, DeJong may maybe transfer over to second base. Whit Merrifield is having a strong season however can even play left subject.
