Anthony Santander (shoulder) could resume hitting within the next week. He’s still a long way’s off and will need essentially a full spring training build up. But an August return isn’t out of the question “He could definitely be a factor,” says Blue Jays manager John Schneider
Blue Jays injury update: Anthony Santander could start hitting next week
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Jun 18, 2026, 13:45 EDTUpdated: Jun 18, 2026, 16:13 EDT
The Toronto Blue Jays could be getting some power back in their lineup… eventually.
Speaking to the media before Thursday’s series finale against the Red Sox, Blue Jays manager John Schneider noted that Anthony Santander could begin hitting within the next week. It’ll be a long road, but an August return is a possibility.
Santander was the Blue Jays’ big bat acquisition during the 2024/25 off-season, signing a five-year deal. Unfortunately, Santander just hasn’t played a lot, getting into 54 games with the Blue Jays in 2025, where he slashed .175/.271/.294 with six home runs in 221 plate appearances.
Most of Santander’s 2025 season was missed due to injury, but he got into some games at the tail end of the season. Santander’s struggles continued into the postseason, slashing just .200/.250/.200 in 16 plate appearances. Santander was eventually removed from the American League Championship Series roster.
At his best, the switch hitter is one of the better power hitters in the league. In 2024, Santander slashed .235/.308/.506, mashing 44 home runs in 665 plate appearances for a 128 wRC+. Only two players hit more home runs than Santander in 2024, Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani.
Getting power in this lineup is vital for the Blue Jays, as their 74 home runs sit in the final third in the big leagues. One player who is much closer to a return is Addison Barger, who may start his rehab assignment either this weekend or the start of next week. Last season, Barger his 21 home runs in 502 plate appearances, good for a 107 wRC+.
Sure, it gives the Blue Jays another left-handed batting outfielder, but there aren’t many other players on the team who can hit for more power than Barger. His return is much needed.
As for Lenyn Sosa and Daulton Varsho, the former is a behind Barger, while Varsho could return as soon as Saturday against the Chicago Cubs.
Ryley Delaney is a Nation Network writer for Blue Jays Nation, Oilersnation, and FlamesNation. She can be followed on Twitter @Ryley__Delaney.
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