Blue Jays’ Guerrero Jr., Kiner-Falefa out of starting lineup against Astros

The Toronto Blue Jays have scratched slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. from the starting lineup for Monday’s game against the Houston Astros due to discomfort in his fingers.

Infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa was also scratched just before first pitch, later explained due to a left-knee injury.

Guerrero was hit by a fastball from pitcher Gerrit Cole during the third inning of Sunday’s 8-1 loss to the New York Yankees. X-rays after the game were negative, according to Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi.

The 25-year-old Guerrero is batting .297 with 13 home runs and 50 RBIs this season.

Spencer Horwitz will start at first base in place of Guerrero and hit second in the order. Ernie Clement slots into the lineup at third base.

The removal of Kiner-Falefa meant Davis Schneider moved to second base from left, Daulton Varsho to left field from centre, and saw Kevin Kiermaier added to the lineup in order to play centre field.

Shortstop Bo Bichette, who had a scheduled day off Sunday, is back in the lineup at leadoff.

The 26-year-old came off the injured list this past Tuesday after missing time due to a right calf strain. Bichette has batted 3-for-21 with a double and five runs scored since his return.

Alejandro Kirk is in at catcher as Danny Jansen has been placed on the paternity list.

Right-handed pitcher Yariel Rodriguez (0-2, 5.94 ERA) gets the start on the mound. The 27-year-old will look to bounce back after pitching only 1.1 innings and giving up four runs during his previous start against the Cleveland Guardians on June 21.

Watch the Blue Jays host the Astros live at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT on Sportsnet or Sportsnet+.

More from Sportsnet

Canada Day start latest landmark for Yariel Rodriguez after leaving Cuba for Blue Jays

Blue Jays recall Brian Serven, place Danny Jansen on paternity list