The Toronto Blue Jays have been dealt a significant setback in the midst of the ALCS, as outfielder Anthony Santander has been officially removed from the postseason roster because of a troublesome back injury. MLB’s medical director,
Dr. Gary Green, reviewed the case and approved the move, meaning Santander won’t be eligible even if Toronto advances to the World Series.
Santander’s season has been marred by injuries. He managed to appear in just 54 regular-season games and five playoff games, batting a mere .175 with six home runs in the regular season and hitting .200 in the postseason.
He had already been limited by a shoulder issue earlier in the year, and this latest back ailment is the latest hurdle to his availability. He was scratched late from Game 2 and then exited Game 3 early after only two at-bats.
To fill the void, the Blue Jays added outfielder Joey Loperfido to the roster. Manager John Schneider reshuffled the lineup: Isiah Kiner‑Falefa was inserted in his place, Ernie Clement moved to third base, and Addison Barger slotted into right field. Schneider explained that Santander remained stiff and sore following Game 3, and despite treatment, he was not in condition to play.
This loss is a major blow to Toronto’s depth at the plate in a critical moment of the postseason.
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