Blue Jays subtly hinted at George Springer's injury status in late-game decision

George Springer had a batting helmet on and was waiting at the dugout steps.

If Bo Bichette got on base in the ninth inning, Springer was going to pinch-run for him. That became extra evident because as soon as the Blue Jays' hitter made an out, Springer was shown on camera walking back into the dugout and taking the helmet off.

It was subtle, but it's a big deal all the same.

Springer was hurt in Game 3 of the World Series on a foul ball swing. He held his side, and although the Blue Jays haven't termed it an oblique injury, it's clearly something like that.

It's not a comfortable place for a hitter to be injured, because those side muscles are so crucial in every swing.

Springer sat out Game 4 and Game 5, but the whispers began in Game 5 that he might be available.

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First, manager John Schneider told Fox's Tom Verducci on the national broadcast that they might be able to get an at bat or two out of Springer.

And then there he was, ready to pinch run. The Blue Jays had other bench players and a big lead. If they had major concerns about Springer's health, he wouldn't have been the choice as a runner. But they likely felt it'd be a chance to reintegrate him into the action in a small way.

Toronto won both games without Springer to take a 3-2 lead in the series, a massive deal as it heads back to Canada for a potential clincher Game 6 (with Game 7 scheduled Saturday for Rogers Centre if it doesn't finish Friday).

First, it's an off day Thursday, which is a big deal, too. Springer gets an extra chance at recovery.

And given the Blue Jays' willingness to use Springer late in Game 4, it wouldn't be a surprise at all to see him back atop the lineup to try and bring the World Series home.

More World Series news:

• Why Louis Varland did an intentional balk late in Game 4
• Fans can't help but notice Blake Snell's eyes
• Magic Johnson gives some really obvious World Series advice
• The reason Davis Schneider grew a mustache for the Blue Jays
• Ernie Clement extends his improbable hit streak
• The Blue Jays have left themselves one major task