Former Twin seeing increased role in World Series due to George Springer's injury

During Game 3 of this year's World Series on Monday, Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer took a swing in the seventh inning that left him grabbing his right side in pain. After calling Toronto's athletic trainer, Springer exited the game. Then former Twin Ty France entered to pinch-hit against Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski.

Traded Twin Ty France seeing more playing time in World Series against Dodgers following Blue Jays' George Springer's injury

France hadn't had a single at-bat during the whole postseason, yet entered Monday's game during a pivotal moment, as the game was tied 4-4. France struck out in his first at-bat, then faced Roki Sasaski during the eighth inning and grounded out. Then, France delivered a two-out single to left field off Emmet Sheehan in the top of the tenth inning and was replaced at first base in favor of Davis Schneider. The Blue Jays ended up losing the game 6-5 after Freddie Freeman hit a walk-off homer in the 18th inning. The thriller tied the record for the longest World Series Game ever at 6 hours and 39 minutes.

The Blue Jays kept France on the bench for Game 4 despite Springer being unavailable. However, France still made an impact in the game, collecting an RBI groundout off lefty Anthony Banda as a pinch-hitter for Nathan Lukes in the seventh inning to increase Toronto's lead to 4-1. The Blue Jays went on to win the game 6-2, evening the series 2-2.

When France made the Blue Jays' World Series roster, most people likely assumed his only role would be as a pinch-hitter against lefties. But if Springer ends up being unavailable for Game 5, France might get the start at designated hitter, as lefty ace Blake Snell is slated to make the start on the mound for the Dodgers. Even if Springer is cleared for Game 5, Blue Jays manager John Schneider might consider starting France to increase the number of righties in the lineup.

Game 5 of the 2025 World Series is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. CST on Wednesday at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Snell will be opposed on the mound by 22-year-old rookie Trey Yesavage. The game will be available to stream on FOX.