New Blue Jay Anthony Santander embraces his new team
On Tuesday afternoon, Anthony Santander officially became a Toronto Blue Jay, slipping into that crisp white jersey for the first time. This move feels like a perfect match for an organization that needed a boost after a challenging year. There’s nothing complicated about his five-year, $92.5 million deal—no caveats, no negativity. It’s a pairing that has always made sense, and now, it’s official.
“We had a jersey with your name on it all offseason,” said GM Ross Atkins, addressing Santander directly. From the moment Santander hit free agency following a 44-homer season with the Orioles, Toronto has been the talk of the town for him. Santander is close with several people tied to the Blue Jays, including Victor Martinez, now a special assistant with the team, and Venezuelan teammate Andrés Giménez.
He’s also built a rapport with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and has had discussions with Alek Manoah, who trains at the same offseason facility. This move feels natural—no need for a hard sell. Santander already knows Toronto well from his eight seasons in the AL East, including 27 games at Rogers Centre, which he considers his “favorite park.” “It’s important to me to make this move,” Santander said. “They want to win, and they have a winning mentality. The city and the environment at Rogers Centre are amazing. I’ll bring what I learned in Baltimore, especially in the playoffs, and share that with my new teammates.” Santander’s connection to the Blue Jays front office goes back to 2011, when Atkins believed in him during his time with Cleveland. “Ross trusted me, even when I had injuries,” Santander said. “That gave me comfort.”
Now, Santander will join forces with Guerrero Jr. in the lineup. Atkins believes he’s exactly what the team needs—a consistent power hitter. And despite the offseason’s challenges, this deal positions the Blue Jays for future success, with financial flexibility still in place for further moves.
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