LOS ANGELES — The Blue Jays hadn’t given up Wednesday on the idea George Springer could still serve a role for the team in the World Series.

Springer did not play in the Blue Jays’ 6-1 Game 5 win Wednesday night — he departed Monday’s game with side discomfort from a swing — but manager John Schneider wasn’t ruling out an appearance off the bench from the veteran DH/outfielder. The World Series returns to Toronto Friday night with the Jays holding a 3-2 lead.

Springer worked out pregame and hit against velocity, according to Schneider.

“I think he’s better than he expected to feel and better than we expected him to feel, which is saying a lot,” Schneider said.

“If he can pinch hit, I think he will be ready to do that. George has made some significant progress.”

Springer, the team’s

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