The Toronto Blue Jays’ recent 5-4 loss to the Detroit Tigers on Friday night marked a challenging start to their three-game series. Despite home runs from Daulton Varsho and Bo Bichette, the Blue Jays couldn’t overcome the Tigers’ offense, which was propelled by Riley Greene’s three RBIs and solo homers from Zach McKinstry and Javier Báez.
Starting pitcher Bowden Francis allowed four runs over 4.2 innings, contributing to the team’s defeat. This loss dropped Toronto to 21-23 on the season, placing them two games below .500 and third in the AL East.
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The Blue Jays have also been navigating a series of injuries that have tested their roster depth.
Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Anthony Santander (25)© Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Compounding the team’s struggles, outfielder Anthony Santander was absent from the lineup for the second consecutive game on Saturday due to left hip soreness. The discomfort reportedly began after a swing during his eighth-inning at-bat on Thursday.
Additionally, a left shoulder issue prevented him from pinch-hitting late in Friday’s game.
Following the news on Saturday, fans took to social media to express their concerns and frustrations over Santander’s health
“Ok what is going on with Santander? Is there a health issue? … Something is going on that they aren’t telling us,” one fan wrote.
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“Santander is severely injured for sure,” another fan added.
“This raises a red flag for me when it comes to Anthony Santander,” a third fan said.
“Put Santander on the IL at this point. If he isn’t right, let him rest,” another fan posted.
Santander joined the Blue Jays in the offseason, bringing a strong offensive presence to the team. His absence, along with other injuries, has highlighted the team’s depth challenges.
Related: Blue Jays’ John Schneider Announces Injury News Amid Unexpected Absence
Related: Blue Jays Make Unfortunate Announcement During Loss to Tigers