In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Toronto Blue Jays have officially removed Anthony Santander from their ALCS roster, abruptly ending his 2025 postseason journey. But here's where it gets controversial: Was this the right call, or did the team act too hastily given Santander’s potential impact? Let’s dive into the details.
The Blue Jays’ star switch-hitter, who joined the team in a high-profile offseason move, has been sidelined due to persistent injuries. After battling a shoulder issue that limited him to just 54 regular-season games, Santander’s October was marred by back problems. With his removal from the roster, he’s now ineligible to play in the World Series, even if Toronto advances. MLB approved the move late Thursday, effectively closing the book on Santander’s 2025 season.
And this is the part most people miss: Despite his struggles this year, Santander’s absence leaves a void in the lineup. In his first season of a five-year, $92.5 million deal, he hit .175 with six home runs and a -1.0 WAR, per Baseball Reference. Yet, his return in September hinted at a potential turnaround, as he notched three hits and two RBIs in five playoff games. Could he have been the clutch player Toronto needed in the later rounds? It’s a question that will linger among fans.
Replacing Santander is outfielder Joey Loperfido, who joined the ALCS roster just an hour before Game 4. Loperfido, 26, ended his regular season on a high note with a .333 average and .879 OPS, but he has yet to make his postseason debut. Meanwhile, shortstop Bo Bichette remains out with a knee sprain, further thinning the Jays’ lineup.
Manager John Schneider summed up the situation poignantly: “Feeling all sorts of October, and the season he has had.” Santander’s journey this year has been a rollercoaster, from injuries to fleeting moments of promise. His removal mid-game in Game 3 due to stiffness and soreness was the final straw, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
Here’s the bold question: Did the Blue Jays make the right call by removing Santander, or did they underestimate his potential to turn things around in the postseason? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
As Toronto pushes forward without Santander, the team’s offense, which finished fourth in runs scored this season, will need to step up. With Loperfido in the mix and Isiah Kiner-Falefa filling in, the Jays are adapting on the fly. But as they navigate October without their big offseason acquisition, one thing is clear: this postseason just got a lot more unpredictable.
Oct 16, 2025
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