Anthony Santander’s participation in the postseason with the Toronto Blue Jays has come to an end. The news was confirmed this Thursday by Major League Baseball, which approved a substitution on the players list due to an injury to the outfielder.Santander has been dealing with a back injury that forced him to be removed from Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners. Although he participated in Game 3 in right field, he was replaced after two at-bats in Toronto’s 13-4 victory, which reduced the series deficit to 2-1.The MLB announcement came a little more than an hour before Game 4 on Thursday night in Seattle.According to the league, Dr. Gary Green, their medical director, confirmed Santander’s injury “after a complete review of the medical information.” Joey Loperfido will take his place on the Blue Jays roster.The regulations prevent Santander from returning for the American League Championship Series or the subsequent series if the Blue Jays advance, which means he will not be able to participate in the World Series.Santander signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract with Toronto last offseason, but missed nearly four months due to a left shoulder injury. In 54 games, the player, who was an All-Star in 2024, batted .175 with 6 home runs and 18 RBIs.In this postseason, his batting average was .200 (3 for 15) with no home runs, 2 RBIs, and 5 strikeouts in five games.
Loperfido, 26, batted .333 with four home runs and 14 RBIs in 96 at-bats during 41 games for Toronto this year, playing in both outfield positions.Obviously, we would love to have him there, but it’s part of the game, part of this moment of the season.
Kevin Gausman
