Ross Atkins speaks on the Blue Jays replacing Anthony Santander following injury update
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Victor William
Feb 11, 2026 (8:13)
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Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Just when fans were firing up the trade machine to replace Anthony Santander, Ross Atkins poured a bucket of cold water on the idea.
The GM’s confirmation today that the Blue Jays are "not significantly" involved in the outfield market is a bold declaration.
With Santander sidelined for 5-6 months due to labral surgery, the natural instinct is to panic-buy a veteran replacement.
Blue Jays are “not significantly” involved in the OF market after the Anthony Santander injury per GM Ross Atkins.
Atkins says Jays are always looking for pitching.
Atkins says Jays are always looking for pitching.
Instead, Atkins is doubling down on his internal options, signaling that the organization believes its depth is championship-caliber.
This decision puts the spotlight squarely on Addison Barger and Davis Schneider to step up and seize the everyday right field job.
Barger (Drafted 6th Round, 2018 by Blue Jays) has flashed immense power upside, but now he has to show he can handle the grind of 150+ at-bats.
Schneider, who has been a fan favorite since his historic debut, offers versatility but needs to prove his bat can stay hot for a full season.
The focus remains where it always has been: Pitching
Atkins’ comment that the team is "always looking for pitching" is the real tell here.
He knows that in the AL East, you can survive with a platoon in right field, but you cannot survive a thin bullpen.
By not spending assets on a rental outfielder, he keeps his powder dry to acquire a high-leverage arm or rotation insurance at the deadline.
It’s a calculated risk that says, "We trust our development system more than the free agent scrap heap."
This is the moment the "Buffalo Boys" have been waiting for—a clear runway with no veteran blocking their path.
If they fail, Atkins will look like he fell asleep at the wheel.
But if they succeed, it’s a masterclass in roster management that saves money and builds the future simultaneously.
The kids have the keys to the car; let’s see if they can drive.
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