TORONTO – Toronto Blue Jays’ outfielder Anthony Santander remains sidelined, unable to begin swinging a bat as he continues his recovery from a partially dislocated left shoulder.
General Manager Ross Atkins announced that Santander suffered a left shoulder subluxation earlier this season after colliding with the outfield wall during a game in Anaheim in early May. The Blue Jays subsequently placed Santander on the injured list on May 30.
Santander inked a substantial $92.5 million contract for five years with the Blue Jays in January, a deal that includes up to $61.75 million in deferred payments. Atkins expressed optimism about Santander’s progress, noting that he might resume swinging the bat soon, with the possibility of rejoining the team before the All-Star break.
Last year, Santander delivered an impressive performance for Baltimore, hitting career highs with 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, and 91 runs scored over 155 games. However, he has struggled this season, managing a .179 batting average, six home runs, and 18 RBIs across 50 games. The veteran switch hitter is determined to rebound from this slump.
In other team developments, shortstop Bo Bichette was pulled from Monday’s lineup against the New York Yankees due to a sore right knee. Ernie Clement transitioned from third base to shortstop and advanced from second in the order to the leadoff position.
Additionally, adjustments were made on the field: Addison Barger shifted from right field to third base, George Springer moved from designated hitter to right field, Will Wagner switched from second base to designated hitter, and Davis Schneider replaced Schneider in left field.
As the lineup undergoes these changes, the Blue Jays are keenly focused on managing player injuries and maintaining team performance.