Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer returned to the leadoff spot for Tuesday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sat out for the first time this season, receiving a scheduled day off. Manager John Schneider confirmed Guerrero remains available if needed.
The Blue Jays welcomed Springer back after he was hit by a pitch on his previously fractured left big toe during Saturday's game against the Twins. X-rays showed no new injury, allowing the veteran to resume his role at the top of the order. Springer enters the matchup slashing .212/.307/.364 over 18 games, with a 17-game on-base streak intact despite the team's offense ranking 25th in runs scored at 144. He was on deck in the ninth inning of Monday's 5-1 game but did not appear after a double play ended the threat. Guerrero, who started Toronto's first 35 games in the No. 3 spot, was rested for the contest. Third baseman Kazuma Okamoto took his lineup position, while Lenyn Sosa covered first base. Schneider explained, “He'll be available if needed. But want to try to stay away from him. Hard to not put him in the lineup and probably even harder to not use him if we need him. But everyone needs a day here and there.” Guerrero leads qualified hitters with a .331 batting average and .416 on-base percentage through 130 at-bats, though he has only two home runs and a .431 slugging percentage, 62 points below his career mark. The team anticipates further offensive boost with Addison Barger set for activation from the injured list by Friday at the latest.
