SEATTLE – After dropping back-to-back games to Seattle to open the American League Championship Series, Blue Jays manager John Schneider has made changes to his starting lineup for Game 3 on Wednesday at T-Mobile Park.
Right-fielder Anthony Santander returned to the lineup within the cleanup spot after sitting out Game 2 on account of back tightness. Third baseman Addison Barger moved right down to seventh within the order and utilityman Davis Schneider was available off the bench.
“Let’s attempt to have a number of less jabs and a number of more uppercuts,” John Schneider said of the changes in a pre-game media availability from his office.
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Santander, who had a single in three at-bats in Game 1, was a late scratch for Game 2 when his back stiffened up.
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Toronto managed only 4 runs and eight hits over the primary two games. Seattle took the opener 3-1 on Sunday at Rogers Centre and followed a day later with a 10-3 rout in Game 2.
“I feel they’re doing a extremely good job of pitching to weak contact and understanding that we’re not striking out,” John Schneider said of the Mariners. “So I feel take some shots, you’ve got to take some shots. I feel Tony’s at-bats have been good. I feel Addy’s at-bats have been effective.
“But I feel (it’s) just attempting to have a special look. Are you able to clip a two- or three-run homer here? You already know what I mean? Especially on this ballpark.”
The Mariners will host Game 4 on Thursday. If essential, Seattle would also host Game 5 on Friday.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 15, 2025.
© 2025 The Canadian Press