Blue Jays’ Springer Optimistic for Game 6 After Injury Scare

TORONTO — **UPDATE:** Blue Jays manager **John Schneider** is feeling optimistic that **George Springer** will be ready to play against the **Seattle Mariners** in **Game 6 of the AL Championship Series** tonight at **6:00 PM**. Schneider reported that Springer is “feeling a lot better than he did yesterday” after suffering a right kneecap injury.

Springer, Toronto’s key leadoff hitter, was hit by a **95.6 mph pitch** from Mariners pitcher **Bryan Woo** during the seventh inning of Friday’s **6-2 loss**, leaving the game in visible discomfort. With the Mariners leading the best-of-seven series **3-2**, every moment counts as the Blue Jays aim to stave off elimination.

In a press conference on Saturday, Schneider revealed that Springer received treatment and is expected to test his knee during a team workout. “Just make sure that it’s not bothering him swinging and not bothering him running,” Schneider explained. “But he’s a tough dude, so I’m hopeful and optimistic that he’ll be good to go.”

Springer, a **four-time All-Star**, has been a pivotal player for Toronto this postseason, hitting **.256** with three home runs and five doubles. Notably, his **22 career playoff homers** tie him with **Bernie Williams** for the fourth most in MLB history, showcasing his importance in high-stakes games.

“You guys have probably seen him in the outfield, but not on the bases yet,” Schneider told reporters regarding injured shortstop **Bo Bichette**, who has been sidelined since a collision with Yankees catcher **Austin Wells** on September 6. “May do that today. But he’s definitely making progress. Definitely making progress with his swing as well.”

Bichette, who finished second in the major leagues to the **New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge** with a **.311 batting average**, remains a critical asset as the Blue Jays navigate this challenging postseason. He is eligible for free agency after the World Series, adding another layer of urgency to his recovery.

As fans gear up for tonight’s must-win game, the health of key players like Springer and Bichette could determine the Blue Jays’ fate in this pivotal series. The atmosphere at the **Rogers Centre** is expected to be electric as Toronto fights to keep their championship hopes alive.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops leading up to Game 6.