Sun Oct 26 01:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Blue Jays Aim for 2-0 World Series Lead, Bichette Sits, Bassitt Bothered by Blister, Mattingly Considers Retirement

Toronto, ON – October 25, 2025 – Riding high after a dominant Game 1 victory, the Toronto Blue Jays look to extend their World Series lead against the Los Angeles Dodgers tonight. However, they’ll be doing so without star infielder Bo Bichette in the starting lineup.

Manager John Schneider stated the decision to rest Bichette, who recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff, is precautionary. “He’ll be ready to play today, for sure,” Schneider said, “But really, after the layoff, [I] didn’t want to kill him, you know.” Despite not starting, Bichette is available off the bench, a positive sign after he reported feeling better than expected following his Game 1 appearance. Isiah Kiner-Falefa will fill Bichette’s spot at second base, batting eighth.

Adding to the Jays’ injury watch is veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, who is battling a cut/blister on his pitching hand. Despite the issue, Bassitt remains available in the bullpen, a valuable asset given his three scoreless relief appearances this postseason. However, the Blue Jays will likely monitor his condition closely, as even minor issues with a pitcher’s throwing hand can impact performance.

Away from the field, veteran bench coach Don Mattingly, is contemplating retirement after finally reaching the World Series after a long career. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, friends believe retirement is a real possibility for Mattingly, who managed both the Dodgers and the Marlins. Mattingly himself remained coy, simply saying, “You never know, you never know.”

A World Series victory could be the perfect ending to Mattingly’s illustrious career. The Blue Jays aim to make that a reality, starting with taking a 2-0 series lead tonight.

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