Blue Jays’ Santander Sidelined for Rest of ALCS Showdown with Mariners
Anthony Santander’s season with the Toronto Blue Jays has concluded prematurely. The team announced his removal from the roster for the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Seattle Mariners due to an ongoing injury.
Blue Jays’ Santander Sidelined for Rest of ALCS
The injury decision came just before Game 4 in Seattle. Major League Baseball (MLB) confirmed the Blue Jays’ request to replace Santander with outfielder Joey Loperfido for the remainder of the ALCS. This change requires validation of his injury by MLB medical director Dr. Gary Green and renders Santander ineligible for the World Series, should the Blue Jays advance.
Santander’s Injury History
Prior to this decision, Blue Jays manager John Schneider revealed that Santander felt soreness the day of the roster change. He had already missed Game 2 due to lower back tightness and exited Game 3 early after scoring in the fifth inning.
The year has been particularly challenging for Santander. Despite signing a $92.5 million deal with the Blue Jays in the offseason, injuries have plagued his season. This came after his standout performance in 2024 with the Baltimore Orioles, where he hit a career-high 44 home runs.
Joey Loperfido Steps In
Loperfido, who has been with the team throughout the postseason, will now take Santander’s place on the roster. His presence offers the Blue Jays a fresh option as they continue their playoff run against the Mariners.
- Player: Anthony Santander
- Team: Toronto Blue Jays
- Opponent: Seattle Mariners
- Injury: Lower back tightness
- Contract: $92.5 million deal
- Replacement: Joey Loperfido
- Season Status: Sidelined for ALCS
