Toronto Blue Jays will start Bo Bichette at second for Game 3

LOS ANGELES — Toronto Blue Jays infielder Bo Bichette will be in the starting lineup and play second base against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 of the World Series on Monday, according to manager John Schneider.

Bichette, 27, had just one hit in Game 2 after starting Game 1 at second, but Schneider indicated the former All-Star is ready to go as the series moves to Los Angeles for Games 3, 4 and 5.

The series is tied 1-1.

“I expect him to be there,” Schneider said Sunday. “He’s here training. I felt good coming out of yesterday. [Game 2]. I think with each day that passes it will probably get as close to normal as possible at this point in the year. »

Bichette went 1-for-2 with a walk in the first game before bowing out early due to the Blue Jays’ lead in what would be a blowout 11-4 victory. The plan was for him not to play in Game 2 unless necessary.

Bichette pinch-hit in the seventh inning of Toronto’s Game 2 loss, grounding out to shortstop. He also played the final two innings of the second game in the field at second base while regular second baseman Andres Gimenez remained at shortstop, where he has been playing since Bichette injured his left knee in early September.

“It was a little different,” Gimenez said. “I remember spring training we were talking about — just having the communication to play next to each other, and now we’re having the same conversations playing next to each other on the opposite side. “I’m just happy to see Bo back. I know how hard he worked in the training room and in the weight room just to get back to this point. »

Schneider said Bichette being able to practice Sunday was “a good sign” and saw no reason why he wouldn’t be ready when the World Series resumes Monday at Dodgers Stadium.

Dodgers right-hander Tyler Glasnow is expected to face Blue Jays veteran Max Scherzer in Game 3.