George Springer injury: Blue Jays star has knee contusion after HBP, ALCS Game 6 status uncertain

Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer came out of the seventh inning Friday's loss in Game 5 of the ALCS against Seattle Mariners after a stray weight from a right-hander hit him in the right knee Brian Wu. Springer suffered what the Blue Jays called a knee contusion. Manager John Schneider said he hopes Springer will play in Sunday's must-win Game 6.

Here's a look at the pitch in question, which was 95.6 mph:

“He has a bruise on his right knee. He had an x-ray which came back negative, which is good. He'll probably run some more tests tonight when we get home. George is as strong as can be. I think it will be very, very painful for him not to be in the lineup on Sunday,” Schneider said after Game 5.

“So we'll see how he feels. On that note, I know it's a great atmosphere to play in and it's really great to play here and I think the fans who were booing him need to look in the mirror and realize what kind of player he is and… I'll leave it at that because when a guy gets hit in the knee and is in obvious pain and you're being cheered by 40,000 people, that's not right.” act.”

Springer initially tried to stay in the game, but after heading to first base, he retreated into the dugout while visibly limping. Springer was replaced by a fellow outfielder. Joey Loperfidowho was only added to the lineup Thursday to replace an injured outfielder. Anthony Santander.

Springer, 36, has enjoyed a resurgent season with the Blue Jays this year. He batted .309/.399/.560 with 32 home runs and 18 stolen bases. His 161 OPS+ represented a new career best, and his contribution was valued at approximately 4.8 wins above replacement.

At the time of Springer's departure, the Blue Jays held a 2–1 lead. In the fifth inning, he hit a game-tying double.

Major League Baseball's rules regarding playoff rosters dictate that if a player is removed during a round, he is ineligible for the next round. So it's safe to assume that the Blue Jays – if they do advance – will have to make do without Springer or Santander.