The returning infielder had the first hit of the World Series in his first plate appearance back from injury.
The Toronto Blue Jays made a bold move with their lineup for Game 1 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Shortstop Bo Bichette hadn't played since Sept. 6 due to a left knee strain. He was left off the American League Divisional Series and American League Championship Series roster against the New York Yankees and Seattle Mariners, respectively, due to the injury.
The Blue Jays activated Bichette for the World Series roster. They chose to slot him in the cleanup spot in the lineup and have him play at second base rather than his usual spot at shortstop.
That decision, at least in the first inning, proved to be a fruitful one.
In the bottom of the first inning in Game 1 of the World Series, with two outs and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first base, Bichette hit a single that moved Guerrero to third. Bichette's hit was the first of the World Series.
Bichette was one of the most efficient hitters in baseball this season.
Bichette scored 78 runs in 139 games and hit 44 doubles, a triple and 18 home runs with 94 RBIs. He slashed .311/.357/.483 with an .840 OPS. His batting average was second in the American League behind Yankees outfielder and MVP candidate Aaron Judge.
Bichette's 44 doubles were the most in his career and second in the majors and AL behind Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (47).
Bichette is set to be an unrestricted free agent after this season and a solid showing in the World Series, coupled with his great regular season, could help him earn a sizable contract this offseason.
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