Blue Jays slugger Santander back in lineup for Game 3 of ALCS against Mariners

SEATTLE – After dropping back-to-back games to Seattle to open the American League Championship Series, Blue Jays manager John Schneider has made changes to his starting lineup for Game 3 on Wednesday at T-Mobile Park. 

Right-fielder Anthony Santander returned to the lineup in the cleanup spot after sitting out Game 2 due to back tightness. Third baseman Addison Barger moved down to seventh in the order and utilityman Davis Schneider was available off the bench. 

“Let’s try to have a few less jabs and a few more uppercuts,” John Schneider said of the changes in a pre-game media availability from his office.

Santander, who had a single in three at-bats in Game 1, was a late scratch for Game 2 when his back stiffened up. 

Toronto managed only four runs and eight hits over the first two games. Seattle took the opener 3-1 on Sunday at Rogers Centre and followed a day later with a 10-3 rout in Game 2.

“I think they’re doing a really good job of pitching to weak contact and understanding that we’re not striking out,” John Schneider said of the Mariners. “So I think take some shots, you’ve got to take some shots. I think Tony’s at-bats have been good. I think Addy’s at-bats have been fine.

“But I think (it’s) just trying to have a different look. Can you clip a two- or three-run homer here? You know what I mean? Especially in this ballpark.”

The Mariners will host Game 4 on Thursday. If necessary, Seattle would also host Game 5 on Friday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 15, 2025.