Vladimir Guerrero Jr. returns as the designated hitter while Kevin Gausman gets the ball as the Blue Jays open their series against the Padres.
The lineup card shows a few notable changes. Ernie Clement moves into the leadoff spot at 2B, giving Toronto a contact-first hitter to start the game against San Diego.
Nathan Lukes stays near the top of the order in RF, batting second. His job is simple: get on base and create scoring chances before the heart of the lineup comes up.
Guerrero slots into the No. 3 spot as the DH instead of playing first base. The move keeps Toronto's biggest bat in the lineup while reducing his workload in the field.
Kazuma Okamoto continues to hold down the cleanup role at 3B. The Blue Jays have leaned heavily on his run-producing ability, and they will need another big night from him.
Daulton Varsho bats fifth and patrols CF. His combination of defense and power gives Toronto another dangerous bat behind Guerrero and Okamoto.
Bryan Valenzuela gets the start behind the plate in the sixth spot, another opportunity for the young catcher to work with one of the club's veteran starters.
Blue Jays reshuffle lineup behind Kevin Gausman
Sean Keys starts at 1B and hits seventh, keeping another left-handed bat in the lineup. Toronto continues to give him regular opportunities as he gains major league experience.
Jonatan Clase gets the call in LF and bats eighth. His speed adds another dimension near the bottom of the order, especially if he can reach base ahead of the lineup turning over.
Andrés Giménez rounds out the lineup at SS. Batting ninth allows him to serve as a second leadoff hitter, using his defense and speed to spark innings before Clement returns to the plate.
The biggest responsibility still belongs to Gausman. After Toronto's recent struggles, the veteran right-hander will be counted on to provide stability and keep the Padres' lineup under control from the opening inning.
The Blue Jays also need their offense to support him early. With Guerrero, Okamoto and Varsho grouped together in the middle, Toronto has its best opportunity to put pressure on San Diego before the bullpen becomes a factor.
This lineup reflects a balanced approach. Schneider keeps Guerrero's bat in the middle while giving him a partial day off defensively, moves Clement into the leadoff role, and trusts Gausman to set the tone on the mound.
Do you like Ernie Clement leading off for the Blue Jays against the Padres?
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