After a disappointing 2025 season marred by injuries, Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander is determined to reclaim his form in 2026. The 31-year-old slugger, signed to a five-year, $92.5 million contract, struggled with a .175 batting average and just six home runs in 54 games last year. Manager John Schneider remains confident in Santander's potential to contribute significantly.
Anthony Santander's 2025 campaign with the Toronto Blue Jays was a far cry from expectations. Acquired as the team's marquee offseason signing, the switch-hitter faced persistent challenges that sidelined him and hampered his production. He began the year slowly, a pattern from his career, before suffering a left shoulder subluxation midway through the season. This injury, accompanied by inflammation, forced him to miss nearly four months while rehabbing.
Santander returned in late September for the stretch run, appearing in five postseason games. However, a back injury led to his removal from the American League Championship Series roster against the Seattle Mariners. Over his limited play, he posted a .175 average, six home runs, and a .565 OPS—well below his career .762 mark and the 44 homers he hit with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024.
The frustrations were compounded by Santander's efforts to adapt to a new organization. "Tony is going to be huge for us," said manager John Schneider. "Speaking to him at the end of the year and in the postseason, he battled to get back. … He wanted to be part of it so bad."
Schneider emphasized Santander's motivation without pressuring him for unrealistic feats. "He is motivated. He is hungry to get back to the player we know he is," the manager added. "I don't want you to think you have to do anything you don't do well. You don't have to come back and hit .300 with 50 homers to make up for last year."
For 2026, a .750 OPS with over 20 home runs would represent solid progress, especially if it includes a strong finish in key months. The Blue Jays view Santander as essential, particularly amid uncertainties with players like George Springer, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Daulton Varsho, and Addison Barger. The team is exploring strategies to address his slow starts, with Santander eager to integrate fully.
This bounce-back is critical for Toronto's lineup, offering reliable power without relying on free-agent pursuits like those involving Bo Bichette or Kyle Tucker.
