The Toronto Blue Jays, known for their powerful offense during the 2025 baseball season, have been missing one of their key players, right fielder Anthony Santander, for the majority of the year due to injury. Santander, who signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract with Toronto after a standout 2024 season with the Baltimore Orioles, has been sidelined since May 29th because of a lingering shoulder issue. Recent updates suggest the slugger is now about 70% recovered and could resume batting soon, raising hopes for his return to the lineup.
Impact of Santander’s Absence on Toronto’s Offensive Performance
The Blue Jays have performed strongly throughout the season, led by stars like Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, who have driven much of the team‘s offensive success. Despite Santander‘s extended absence, Toronto’s offense remained among the most explosive in <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>Major League Baseball. However, the team had anticipated even greater power production following Santander’s acquisition last winter, given his 44 home runs and first All-Star Game appearance in 2024. His prolonged injury has prevented him from contributing this season.
Details Behind Santander’s Injury and Current Status
Anthony Santander‘s shoulder problem includes complications involving the labrum, a common area of concern for throwing athletes. Blue Jays beat writer Keegan Matheson relayed an update indicating Santander’s condition is improving markedly.
“There was some labrum stuff going on there, too”
but he’s getting better and
“feels 70% better than he did a week ago,”
according to information Santander shared with Blue Jays manager John Schneider. The team is hopeful that Santander will begin swinging the bat once more shortly.
Manager’s Insights on the Player’s Recovery Progress
John Schneider recently discussed Santander’s rehabilitation status, confirming the encouraging reports on his improvement. Schneider noted Santander’s feeling of substantial recovery, with the player himself estimating he is 70% better compared to a week prior. Although the exact baseline for this percentage is uncertain, the figure points toward meaningful progress in his injury recovery. Schneider emphasized the team‘s optimism regarding Santander starting batting practice soon, an important step before any potential return to game action.
What to Expect Moving Forward for Santander and the Blue Jays
Despite the promising signs, Anthony Santander is still likely weeks away from beginning formal rehab, and it remains uncertain how effective he will be once he returns. His lengthy absence has been a setback for Toronto’s aggressive lineup plans, but his eventual comeback could enhance the team’s offensive depth significantly. Observers and fans will be watching closely to see how Santander’s recovery develops and what role he eventually plays in the Blue Jays’ continued push this season.