The Blue Jays’ $92.5 million man is finally showing signs of life. Anthony Santander delivered his most impactful performance in a Toronto uniform Wednesday night, crushing a three-run homer and scoring the game-winning run in extra innings against the Red Sox.
It’s been a brutal start for Toronto’s prized offseason acquisition. Santander is hitting just .175 with four home runs while striking out 31 times in 114 at-bats — making him one of MLB’s least productive offensive players through the season’s first month.
That’s a far cry from what the Blue Jays expected when they signed the switch-hitting outfielder to a five-year deal this winter, especially after Toronto has struggled to land marquee free agents in recent offseasons.
But Wednesday’s clutch performance might be the spark Santander needs.
“It’s huge for a guy that we’re going to count on for a long time,” Blue Jays manager John Schneider said of Santander’s home run, per The Athletic. “Not just this year, but going forward. It’s a big hit.”
Schneider believes the dramatic win could be a turning point for both Santander and the struggling Blue Jays.
“A win like this can do a lot for you,” he added. “You know, I think it brings guys together. And when you’re going through a little bit of a tough stretch, you’re waiting for something like this.”
The Blue Jays have reason to remain patient with Santander. He was excellent last season with Baltimore, posting a 133 OPS+ and blasting 44 home runs. That kind of production has been his norm over the past five years.
Even if Santander doesn’t quite match last year’s power numbers, Toronto would gladly take 35 homers and a 120 OPS+ from their investment. Wednesday’s breakthrough might be the first step toward getting there.
