LOS ANGELES - George Springer, the Toronto Blue Jays' star outfielder, was not included in the starting lineup for Game 5 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday. Springer has been sidelined since injuring his right side while fouling off a pitch during Game 3.

Earlier in the day at Dodger Stadium, Springer participated in running drills and took swings, indicating he might be available to play off the bench. "He hit in the cage. Looked good," said Blue Jays manager John Schneider during a pre-game media session.

The Blue Jays announced their starting lineup about two hours before the game. Davis Schneider was set to lead off as left fielder, while Bo Bichette, returning from a knee injury, was positioned to bat third as the designated hitter.

In Game 3, Springer called for a trainer during his at-bat in the seventh inning and exited the game after a brief discussion. The Blue Jays lost that game 6-5 in 18 innings but bounced back to even the series with a 6-2 victory in Game 4 on Tuesday.

Schneider has not disclosed specific details regarding the results of Springer's MRI exam but noted that the player has made "significant progress" recently. During the regular season, Springer posted a batting average of .309, hitting 32 home runs and driving in 84 runs. As of Game 5, he had a postseason average of .246, with four home runs and nine RBIs.

The 36-year-old designated hitter previously made a significant impact in the playoffs, including a crucial three-run homer in Toronto's 4-3 win over the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series.

For Game 5, Blue Jays rookie right-hander Trey Yesavage was named the starter, facing off against Dodgers left-hander Blake Snell. Game 6 is scheduled for Friday night at Rogers Centre, with a potential Game 7 set for Saturday in Toronto if necessary.