Blue Jays’ Kiermaier not in starting lineup day after being hit by pitch

Toronto Blue Jays centre fielder Kevin Kiermaier is forced to exit the game against the Houston Astros after taking a pitch from Framber Valdez off the wrist in the second inning.

Toronto Blue Jays centerfielder Kevin Kiermaier is not in the starting lineup for Friday’s series opener against the Minnesota Twins.

Kiermaier left Thursday’s win over the Astros after being hit below the left wrist by a 96 m.p.h. fastball from Astros starter Framber Valdez in the bottom of the second inning.

The Blue Jays said precautionary X-rays came back negative.

Daulton Varsho will start at centerfield in Kiermaier’s place.

Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith confirmed that Kiermaier is considered day-to-day, but is available off the bench.

You can watch the Blue Jays take on the Twins on Sportsnet and SN NOW beginning at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT.

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