Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer will not be in the starting lineup for the third time in the past four games on Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays because of a lingering elbow injury.
Springer was pulled from last Thursday’s game against the Detroit Tigers with discomfort in his right elbow in the eighth inning. Interim manager John Schneider said Springer was “feeling good” afterward.
Springer was seen grimacing after his at-bat in the eighth inning and came off the field after completing some warmup throws in the outfield. He made a highlight-reel catch in the fourth inning, running across centre field while diving to grab the ball.
The 32-year-old has missed time this season while dealing with elbow soreness — described by Schneider as “inflammation” for at least several weeks. The ailment kept the outfielder from participating in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game.
Springer is slashing .251/330/.467 with 18 home runs and 47 RBIs in 87 games.
Lourdes Gurriel Jr. will be in the leadoff spot in place of Springer.
Watch the Blue Jays-Rays game on Sportsnet on Tuesday at 7:10 p.m. ET / 4:10 p.m. PT.