Blue Jays' Bichette and Santander Progress in Recovery
The Toronto Blue Jays received positive news as Bo Bichette and Anthony Santander took batting practice, signaling progress in their recoveries from injuries. Bichette has been sidelined with a sprained left knee since September 6th, while Santander has been out since May 29th due to a shoulder injury.
Bichette's Return Imminent?
Blue Jays manager John Schneider stated that Bichette participated in batting cage sessions on Monday and Tuesday. His return would be a significant boost to the team, as he was enjoying a stellar season before his injury, batting .311 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs.
Bichette leads the majors with 181 hits and 44 doubles despite his time on the injured list, highlighting his importance to the Blue Jays' lineup.
Santander Activated, France Placed on IL
Anthony Santander has been reinstated from the 60-day injured list ahead of Tuesday night's game against the Boston Red Sox at Rogers Centre. However, he did not play in the 4-1 loss.
Santander's activation coincides with Ty France being placed on the 10-day IL due to left oblique inflammation. According to manager John Schneider, France injured himself during early batting practice. “Since we had him here, it made sense to try to not play a man short, tonight, or for a couple days.”
Santander's Opportunity
Santander, who signed a five-year, US$92.5-million deal with Toronto in January, is eager to contribute after a slow start to his Blue Jays career. Prior to his injury, he was batting .179 with six home runs and 18 RBIs in 50 games.
Schneider expressed confidence in Santander, stating, "(Santander will) be in the lineup, whether it's starting, whether it's pinch hitting, whatever it may be... It's a guy that we trust, it's a guy that has, I think, some things to prove a little bit here." The manager added, "He didn't get off to the start he wanted to with us this year and the contract that he signed, but we trust him."
Other Roster Moves
Right-handed pitcher Alek Manoah was designated for assignment, potentially ending his tenure with the Blue Jays after undergoing Tommy John surgery in June 2024. Manoah has not pitched for Toronto this season, boasting a career record of 29-20 with a 3.34 ERA and 412 strikeouts.
