Barger to hit in cleanup spot as Blue Jays take on Athletics in season opener

By Canadian Press on March 27, 2026.

TORONTO — Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Addison Barger will bat in the cleanup spot for the team’s regular-season opener tonight against the Athletics at Rogers Centre.

The 26-year-old right-fielder is coming off a breakout season. He hit 21 homers and had 74 RBIs in 135 games last year.

Designated hitter George Springer will lead off, and left-fielder Nathan Lukes will bat second ahead of first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Barger.

The lineup is rounded out by catcher Alejandro Kirk, centre-fielder Daulton Varsho, third baseman Kazuma Okamoto, second baseman Ernie Clement and shortstop Andres Gimenez.

Right-hander Kevin Gausman will get the start against Luis Severino of the Athletics.

A pre-game ceremony is planned to celebrate the team’s American League championship and 50th anniversary season. The Blue Jays reached the World Series last year but fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 27, 2026.

Gregory Strong, The Canadian Press

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