The Coach’s Pulse: John Schneider Pregame on Kevin Gausman, George Springer’s Return, and Game 6 Mindset
Blue Jays manager John Schneider spoke to reporters ahead of Game 6 of the World Series at Rogers Centre, sharing thoughts on Kevin Gausman’s opportunity to start a potential clincher, George Springer’s return to the lineup, and how the team’s belief has carried over from last season’s disappointments to this year’s historic run.
On Kevin Gausman starting Game 6
“Kind of fitting. Kev’s been, you know, since he’s gotten here, he’s kind of been our guy,” Schneider said. “He’s pitched in big games, pitched in big games in years past and this postseason. You know what you’re going to get. He’s cool and calm as they come. It’s nice that it lined up this way.”
On George Springer returning to the lineup
“He was pretty close in Game 5. I think having the extra day and a half helped,” Schneider explained. “It may be a different story if this season had the potential to be another two weeks, but he’s ready to go.”
On Bo Bichette’s toughness
“Bo’s been so good for us this year and really his entire time here,” Schneider said. “It was hard for him mentally and physically down the stretch, but his mental toughness really came through. He’s grown up a lot this year in terms of who he wants to be in the clubhouse.”
On adjustments vs. Yoshinobu Yamamoto
“He’s tough, man,” Schneider said. “I thought he was like three different pitchers in the first, middle, and last part of that game. Any mistakes that he does make, you have to be ready for them. If he’s throwing strikes, you’ve got to try to force some action.”
On the team’s mindset entering Game 6
“When the game starts, it gets back to normal. In real time, you don’t think about what’s going to be remembered—you just do what you do,” Schneider said. “This is why you sign up for this as a player or manager. You’ve got to enjoy it. The more normal you can make it, the easier it is to play.”
On Max Scherzer’s influence
“He’s not afraid to question base running, defense, offense—he still thinks he’s our best base runner,” Schneider joked. “He’s helped not just pitchers but everyone have an edge. He’s been great for us, more than just on the mound.”
On believing after last season’s struggles
“You always have to say, ‘Yeah, that could be the possibility,’” he said. “Baseball is great—it’s crazy to think about the little things that affected where we are now. Timing is a part of it. I just love how engaged everyone is right now.”
On changes from last season
“I tried to just really be myself,” Schneider said. “This job is hard—it takes reps and mistakes. I’ve never felt more aligned with an entire organization, front office, coaches, and players than I have this year.”
On Alejandro Kirk’s historic achievement
“He’s the first ever Mexico-born player to hit a home run in the World Series,” Schneider said proudly. “Couldn’t happen to a better guy. He’s so likable, consistent, and takes a lot of pride in that.”
On the influence of new hitting coaches
“Pop and Lou have been awesome, and Hunter Mense too,” Schneider said. “Their energy, positivity, and preparation have been clear from day one. They brought the right communication style that helped our guys take the next step.”
Source: Dodger Blue (YouTube)
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