.jpg)
4 hours ago
1
Chris Bassitt was one of the Toronto Blue Jays' most reliable starting pitchers this season.
In Game 1 of the World Series, Bassitt came in out of the bullpen.
The Blue Jays brought Bassitt on in relief in the eighth inning to try and throw the final two frames in an 11-4 lead.
It wasn't a surprise based on the roster, just based on Bassitt's past.
Bassitt started 31 of his 32 appearances in 2025, going 11-9 with a 3.96 ERA.
MORE: Daulton Varsho's home run has craziest link to the 1993 Phillies catcher
Why is Chris Bassitt pitching out of the Blue Jays' bullpen?
More or less, the Blue Jays have too many good starters.
Bassitt and Max Scherzer both aren't in the playoff rotation despite being good starting pitchers. Once Trey Yesavage earned a rotation spot, it kept the veterans out.
The Blue Jays got Bassitt out there in Game 1 to let him keep getting comfortable in this new role while coming on in a relatively low pressure spot with a seven-run lead.
MORE: Addison Barger's grand slam made all kinds of history
Bassitt made two relief appearances in the ALCS against the Mariners.
In the first, he went 1.2 scoreless innings with two strikeouts. In the second, he went another scoreless frame with a strikeout. He didn't allow a baserunner in either.
If the Blue Jays can count on Bassitt out of the bullpen, it's a big boost for the rest of the World Series.
More World Series news
- Why Mookie Betts switched to shortstop from right field for Dodgers
- Buddy Kennedy will get a World Series ring no matter which team wins
- Meet Ernie Clement, Blue Jays' postseason record setter who is nominated for 2 Gold Gloves
- Blue Jays have 3 players who are sons of former MLB stars
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract looks like perfect Blue Jays decision
- Max Muncy's switch to glasses helped save his Dodgers career
English (US)