The Toronto Blue Jays have announced updated injury timelines for two of their players, Alejandro Kirk and Miguel Ponce, as they navigate challenging circumstances early in the season.
Ponce’s Injury and Surgery
Miguel Ponce, who signed a three-year contract worth $30 million during the off-season, will undergo surgery on his ACL next week. The team informed the media that he is expected to be sidelined for at least six months.
Ponce sustained his injury during his first start for the Blue Jays on March 30 against the Colorado Rockies. After pursuing a ground ball, he fell and had to be carted off the field. He had pitched only 2.1 innings prior to the incident. This marked his first major league appearance since 2021, having previously played in Japan and South Korea.
Kirk’s Injury Details
Meanwhile, Alejandro Kirk is set to miss a minimum of six weeks due to a thumb injury. He suffered a dislocated thumb and a fracture near his knuckle when a foul tip struck his catching hand during a game against the Chicago White Sox on April 7.
After the injury, Kirk was placed on the 10-day injured list. He had only played five games this season, posting a .150 batting average with one home run. In response to his absence, the Blue Jays have recalled rookie catcher Brandon Valenzuela from Triple-A Buffalo.
Current Roster Adjustments
- Miguel Ponce: Undergoing ACL surgery, out for at least six months.
- Alejandro Kirk: Thumb injury, out for at least six weeks.
- Brandon Valenzuela: Recalled from Triple-A Buffalo.
The Blue Jays continue to adjust their roster as they cope with these significant injuries, hoping for quick recoveries for both Ponce and Kirk. Fans will be keen to see how the team adapts in the coming weeks.
