Blue Jays bench Jesus Sanchez for series opener against the Athletics

The Toronto Blue Jays excluded Jesus Sanchez from the lineup for the series opener against the Athletics on Monday. This decision follows a defensive error by Sanchez in a 6-1 loss to the Kansas City Royals, where he failed to field a fly ball. Manager John Schneider cited the need to prioritize defensive consistency as the team chases a Wild Card spot. Myles Straw will start in left field for the Blue Jays, who enter the series with a 72-72 record. Sanchez, who maintains a.260 batting average this season, has struggled defensively with three errors and a -8 defensive runs saved rating. Schneider suggested that Sanchez may be relegated to designated hitter and pinch-hitting duties for the remainder of the season.

• 3:11 AMYahoo Sports — Blue Jays Bench Jesus Sanchez in A’s Series Opener After Another Fielding Error