The star shortstop was included on the Blue Jays’ roster for the Fall Classic, the team announced on Friday ahead of Game 1 (Sportsnet, 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT).
After the Blue Jays’ Game 7 ALCS win against the Seattle Mariners on Monday, Bichette told reporters “I’ll be ready” when asked about his availability for the World Series.
It turns out he was, as the two-time all-star will add even more punch to a Blue Jays lineup that has led all teams in runs (71), batting average (.296) and OPS (.878) by wide margins this post-season.
It is not known whether Bichette will slot in at a middle infield position or DH. The team’s usual shortstop was taking ground balls at second base at Rogers Centre on Wednesday.
“I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help this team win in whatever role it is,” Bichette said Thursday, when asked about a potential move to second base.
The Blue Jays added Bichette and fellow infielder Ty France to the World Series roster, while removing reliever Yariel Rodriguez and outfielder Joey Loperfido from the unit that played in the ALCS.
The Blue Jays will use 14 position players and 12 pitchers.
Bichette was left off the Blue Jays’ ALDS and ALCS roster after suffering a knee sprain Sept. 6 against the New York Yankees. Following the ALDS, Bichette hit live pitching and ran the bases for the first time since, but still appeared to be in pain.
The 27-year-old was enjoying a bounce-back season before missing most of the final month. Bichette slashed .311/.357/.483 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs and led MLB with 181 hits at the time of his injury. He still finished tied for second in hits and second in doubles (44) despite missing the final 20 games of the year.
“This team doesn’t need me to come in and be a hero,” Bichette said of his potential return to the lineup on Thursday. “It needs me to come in and do the job to the best of my ability and help the team win.”
Bichette becomes a free agent after this season.
