Blue Jays’ John Schneider Makes Request After Shohei Ohtani Decision

“I hope he brought the hat, the Blue Jays hat he took from our meeting," he joked. "And the jacket for [his dog] Decoy. Give us our stuff back.”

The immediate fallout from Ohtani's decision was difficult for the Blue Jays, as they missed the 2024 playoffs before the three-time MVP won the World Series with Los Angeles. However, they agreed to a 14-year, $500 million contract extension with franchise cornerstone Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in April 2025, who helped them win their first AL pennant since 1993 this season. Now, they have a chance to block Ohtani from winning his second straight ring.

Blue Jays May Receive Bo Bichette Boost Against Dodgers

Toronto has its work cut out for it against a star-studded Los Angeles team featuring Ohtani, nine-time All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman, former AL MVP infielder Mookie Betts, and ace pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who was fourth in baseball with a 2.49 ERA in the regular season. On the other hand, star shortstop Bo Bichette (knee), who hasn't played since Sept. 6, is now listed as "day-to-day," per ESPN.

Getting the two-time All-Star back for the World Series would change the dynamic of the Blue Jays' lineup, as he was tied for second in baseball with a .311 batting average this year. Schneider also said that he could start at designated hitter, shortstop, or second base if he's healthy enough to play, via Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling.

He added that Bichette "looked more than comfortable" when he played second in the minor leagues. "If you can play shortstop, you can play anywhere."

If the veteran doesn't make the World Series roster, Toronto will have to keep relying on its other key pieces. Guerrero is slashing .442/.510/.930 with six homers and 12 RBIs over 11 postseason games, while designated hitter/outfielder George Springer has four homers and nine RBIs.

The Blue Jays will host Game 1 on Friday starting at 8:00 p.m. ET on Fox.