The Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in the heat of a division battle as September winds down. With just days left in the regular season, Toronto is aiming to capture its first American League East title in a decade. One major piece of the puzzle, however, remains on the sidelines: star shortstop Bo Bichette.
Bichette, who has been sidelined since September 9 with a sprained knee, gave a brief but optimistic update when asked about his recovery. “Getting better every day,” he told Sportsnet while celebrating Toronto’s recent playoff clinch. For Blue Jays fans, those four words carry plenty of weight.
A Bounce-Back Season for Bichette
The 27-year-old has enjoyed a resurgent 2025 campaign after an inconsistent 2024. Entering free agency this winter, Bichette has reminded the baseball world of his elite hitting skills. In 126 games, he has slashed .311/.357/.483 with 18 home runs, reestablishing himself as one of the game’s most consistent offensive performers.
Even with the missed time, Bichette continues to sit among baseball’s leaders in hits, a testament to his ability to string together quality at-bats. He has also set the tone for Toronto’s lineup all season, providing both consistency and clutch production.
His bounce-back has been critical for the Blue Jays, who have surged into contention and already punched their ticket to October. Now the focus shifts to whether Bichette can return in time to help Toronto secure not just the division, but also the top seed in the American League a spot that comes with a valuable first-round bye.
The Role Question: Shortstop or DH?
While Bichette’s bat is not in question, his defensive role remains a point of discussion. The Blue Jays want his impact in the lineup, but playing shortstop so soon after a knee sprain may not be the most prudent move. A stint at designated hitter could be the most likely path forward, allowing Bichette to contribute without putting too much strain on his recovering knee.
This flexibility could become a difference-maker in the postseason, when every at-bat is magnified. A healthy Bichette in any capacity whether anchoring the infield or filling the DH spot would provide Toronto with a critical boost as they chase both divisional glory and postseason success.
The Division Picture: Yankees Still Lurking
Toronto’s playoff berth is secure, but the AL East race is far from over. The New York Yankees remain within striking distance, keeping pressure on the Blue Jays as the season winds down. For Toronto, having Bichette back even in a limited role could be the deciding factor in closing out the division and holding off their longtime rivals.
Winning the East would not only mean bragging rights but also strategic advantages in the playoffs. Securing the bye could buy Bichette an extra week of recovery, giving him a better chance to return closer to full strength before October’s intensity begins.
What’s Next for Bichette and the Blue Jays
As the Blue Jays press forward, all eyes remain on Bichette’s progress. His presence in the clubhouse and on the field is immeasurable, and his four-word update has given both teammates and fans a sense of cautious optimism.
“I’m just doing everything I can to be ready whenever that time is,” Bichette told Sportsnet. That determination, combined with the Blue Jays’ depth and momentum, makes Toronto a formidable opponent heading into the postseason.
If Bichette can return in time to impact the division race, the Blue Jays’ path to October could look even brighter. With the Yankees closing in and the stakes higher than ever, Toronto knows that every swing and every update from their star shortstop matters.