Anthony Santander’s postseason with the Toronto Blue Jays has come to an end. The news was confirmed this Thursday, after the approval of Major League Baseball (MLB) for a substitution in the player list due to an injury of the outfielder.
Santander has been dealing with back issues, which prevented him from participating in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners. Although he played in right field in Game 3, 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, its medical director, confirmed Santander’s injury “after a complete review of the medical information.” Joey Loperfido will take his place on the Toronto roster.
By regulation, Santander will not be able to return for the rest of the American League Championship Series or for the World Series, in case the Blue Jays advance.
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, he hit .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.
