Springer not in Jays' starting lineup for third straight game

Outfielder George Springer will be held out of the Toronto Blue Jays' starting lineup for the third consecutive game as the team wraps up a two-game series with the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field Wednesday afternoon.

Springer has not played since being removed in the ninth inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers on Saturday as he continues to battle a right elbow injury.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. will occupy Springer's usual spot at the top of the batting order while Raimel Tapia will play centre field.

Springer has dealt with the injury off and on for much of the season but has still appeared in 88 games, slashing .251/.330/.467 with 18 home runs and 47 RBI.

The Blue Jays enter play Wednesday 58-45, good for the top wild card spot in the American League.