Blue Jays Jason Santandar Replaced on ALCS Roster Due to Injury

SEATTLE, WA — The Toronto Blue Jays‘ postseason hopes took a hit as Major League Baseball approved a roster substitution for outfielder Anthony Santander, who is struggling with a back injury. Santander was initially removed from Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners.

The 29-year-old outfielder started in right field in Game 3, but after two at-bats, he was replaced during the game. MLB announced the roster change shortly before Game 4 took place on Thursday night in Seattle.

Dr. Gary Green, MLB’s medical director, confirmed Santander’s injury after assessing his medical information, paving the way for the substitution. Outfielder Matt Loperfido has been chosen to take Santander’s place on the roster.

By rule, Santander will not be eligible to return for the remainder of the ALCS or a potential World Series if the Blue Jays advance. The left-handed hitter signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract with Toronto last offseason but faced significant challenges, including a left shoulder injury that sidelined him for nearly four months.

During the 2024 season, Santander managed to hit .175 with six home runs and 18 RBIs over 54 games. This postseason, he was batting .200 with three hits, no home runs, two RBIs, and five strikeouts over five games.

Blue Jays pitcher Yusei Kikuchi acknowledged the loss, stating, ‘We would obviously love to have him in there, but it’s part of the game, part of this point of the season.’ Loperfido, 26, has performed well in limited appearances during the regular season, posting a .333 average with four home runs and 14 RBIs in 96 at-bats across 41 games.

With the Blue Jays trailing 2-1 in the best-of-seven ALCS, this injury adds more pressure as they look to bounce back in the series. The team will rely on the remaining roster to secure their chance at the World Series.