The Toronto Blue Jays are facing significant challenges as they navigate injuries to key players while striving for a playoff spot. Despite their struggles, including four consecutive series losses and a recent injury to George Springer, the team’s playoff odds remain at 38 percent, according to FanGraphs. With 147 games left in the season and six playoff spots available, the Blue Jays are eager to get their injured players back on the field.
Injured Blue Jays Players Nearing Return
As the Blue Jays contend with injuries, they have ten players currently on the injured list (IL) and over $100 million in payroll affected for the 2026 season. However, several players are expected to make a comeback soon. Here is a summary of the injured players and their statuses:
Addison Barger
- Injury: Left ankle sprain
- On IL since: April 7
- Return Timeline: Expected to miss about ten days. Eligible to return against the Diamondbacks on Friday.
- Replacement: Nathan Lukes, Jesus Sanchez, Myles Straw, and Davis Schneider are rotating in the corner outfield spots.
Trey Yesavage
- Injury: Right shoulder impingement
- On IL since: Entire 2026 season so far
- Return Timeline: Expected to start rehab this week, potentially returning next week.
- Replacement: Patrick Corbin has been signed to bolster the rotation.
George Springer
- Injury: Broken left big toe
- On IL since: April 12
- Return Timeline: Doctors suggest he may feel better in 7 to 10 days.
- Replacement: Eloy Jimenez has joined the lineup as designated hitter in the interim.
José Berríos
- Injury: Stress fracture in right elbow
- On IL since: Entire 2026 season so far
- Return Timeline: A couple of weeks away from return after progressing in live batting practice.
- Replacement: Other pitchers, including Corbin, have been given opportunities.
Yimi García
- Injury: Right elbow surgery
- On IL since: Entire 2026 season so far
- Return Timeline: Progressing but no specific timeline for a rehab assignment.
- Replacement: Spencer Miles and Joe Mantiply are seeing more game time.
Alejandro Kirk
- Injury: Broken thumb in left hand
- On IL since: April 4
- Return Timeline: Estimated six-week absence; possible return in mid-May.
- Replacement: Rookie Brandon Valenzuela is stepping up behind the plate.
Shane Bieber
- Injury: Right elbow inflammation
- On IL since: Entire 2026 season so far
- Return Timeline: Awaiting rehab assignment; building back strength.
- Replacement: The team is monitoring his progress while exploring other pitching options.
Anthony Santander
- Injury: Left shoulder surgery
- On IL since: Entire 2026 season so far
- Return Timeline: Could return late in the season if recovery progresses well.
- Replacement: Sanchez is covering outfield duties in his absence.
The recovery of these injured Blue Jays players is crucial for the team’s performance as they work to turn around their season. Coach John Schneider has expressed the need for timely returns to maintain competitive momentum.
