The Toronto Blue Jays are officially back.
As Toronto gears up to begin its Grapefruit League schedule against the New York Yankees on Saturday, the team is running out a familiar lineup to start 2025.
Bo Bichette is serving as the Blue Jays' first leadoff hitter of the season and playing shortstop as he looks to rebound from a disappointing 2024.
Manager John Schneider also has Vladimir Guerrero Jr. back in his usual spots — batting third and at first base.
Guerrero is coming off an excellent 2024, in which he was named to the All-MLB First Team, won a Silver Slugger and finished sixth in MVP voting.
Blue Jays fans will get their first look at Andrés Giménez in blue as he debuts in the two-hole and plays second base.
Giménez was acquired by Toronto in an off-season trade with the Cleveland Guardians. A three-time Gold Glover, the 26-year-old is trying to return to form offensively with his new club.
Rounding out the lineup are returning Blue Jays, Alejandro Kirk behind the plate, Joey Loperfido in centre field, Ernie Clement at third base, Davis Schneider in left, Nathan Lukes in right and Orelvis Martinez at designated hitter.
Left-hander Easton Lucas was tabbed to start on Thursday.
On the other side, New York isn't bringing its A-squad to Dunedin, but veteran southpaw Carlos Rodón will start for the Bronx Bombers in their second game of Grapefruit League play.
You can watch as the 2025 Blue Jays kick their season off against the Yankees on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+. Coverage begins at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT.
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