Blue Jays shortstop Yunel Escobar’s team-imposed three-game suspension has concluded, but he’s not in the lineup for Friday’s game against the Rays.
Escobar was suspended Tuesday after wearing eye black inscribed with an anti-gay slur.
“When we met earlier today it became increasingly clear during that discussion that he needs another day to get back and be ready to play a major league game,” manager John Farrell said. “It’s not so much staying in shape or baseball activity, it’s just about how he’s dealing with the fallout of what he did. He’s remorseful for what took place, and as a result he needs another day to get things in line.”
Farrell indicated that Escobar would be ready to play Saturday, though he didn’t commit to putting him in the lineup.
Adeiny Hechavarria started at shortstop during Escobar’s absence and is back there tonight.