Blue Jays' Schneider: Springer's on verge of 'getting hot'
Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider remains confident in veteran outfielder George Springer despite a frigid first few months at the plate.
Springer struck out three times in Wednesday's loss to the Boston Red Sox and is hitting just .197 this season. Still, Schneider isn't planning on cutting his playing time despite his offensive struggles.
"He's probably a couple of days away from getting hot," Schneider said, according to MLB.com's Keegan Matheson. "That's just how good he is. Has it happened? No, it hasn't happened consistently. There will be times that we try to guard him or guard other guys, but at the end of the day, I'm not nearly at the point of saying, 'You're going to play three days a week.' George is George. We have confidence he’s going to get it going."
Springer was bumped out of his customary leadoff spot earlier this season and has slotted in fifth, sixth, and seventh in the order at various points.
The 34-year-old is in the fourth campaign of a six-year, $150-million contract and is on pace to set career-worst marks in every major offensive category.
The Blue Jays were swept for the first time in the 2024 season, falling to 35-39. They're tied with the Tampa Bay Rays for last place in the AL East.