Blue Jays Face Significant Injuries Before Spring Training
The Toronto Blue Jays are facing significant injury challenges as they gear up for spring training. The team recently revealed that designated hitter Anthony Santander will undergo surgery on his left labrum. This procedure will sideline him for approximately five to six months. Additionally, starter Bowden Francis is set for ulnar collateral ligament surgery and will miss the entire 2026 season. Furthermore, right-handed pitcher Shane Bieber is dealing with forearm fatigue, delaying his preparation for the season.
Key Injury Updates
- Anthony Santander: Undergoing shoulder surgery with a recovery timeline of 5-6 months.
- Bowden Francis: Set for ligament surgery; will miss the 2026 season.
- Shane Bieber: Experiencing forearm fatigue, causing a delay in his training regimen.
Player Performance Overview
Anthony Santander, 31, is in the second year of his five-year, $92.5 million contract. He struggled last season, appearing in just 54 games. In 194 at-bats, he managed a batting average of .175, recording only 34 hits, six home runs, and 18 RBIs, resulting in an OPS of .565. He contributed three hits in five postseason games but did not participate in the World Series.
Bowden Francis, 29, had a promising breakout year in 2024 but struggled with injuries in 2025. He made just 14 starts due to a right shoulder impingement. His performance stats were disappointing, with a 2-8 record and an earned run average (ERA) of 6.05 over 64 innings, alongside a 1.531 WHIP.
Shane Bieber, who joined the Blue Jays from the Cleveland Guardians, has opted to stay with the team for $16 million. With a record of 4-2 in seven starts for the Jays, he posted an ERA of 3.57 and a WHIP of 1.017 across 40.1 innings. He also had a solid playoff performance, going 2-1 in five games.
Upcoming Schedule
The Blue Jays are set to start their spring training on February 21 against the Philadelphia Phillies in Dunedin. The regular season opener is scheduled for March 27 at the Rogers Centre against the Athletics.
