Toronto Blue Jays release three bad-news injury updates

The Toronto Blue Jays are already dealing with some injuries ahead of the 2026 season.

Despite opening day not coming until late March, the Jays have announced that they have some players who will be sidelined to kick things off.

The most devastating of the bunch involves pitcher Bowden Francis, who will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing UCL surgery. The 29-year-old, who had a breakout season in 2024, pitched just 64 innings in 2025 due to injury.

Meanwhile, Anthony Santander's misery with the Blue Jays is continuing. John Schneider informed reporters that the veteran outfielder, who played in just 54 games last season, is undergoing labrum surgery on Wednesday. He is expected to miss 5-6 months.

Perhaps the most concerning of all involves Shane Bieber, who made his Blue Jays debut late last season following Tommy John surgery. The 2020 AL Cy Young winner is dealing with forearm fatigue. No timeline was given on a return, though Schneider confirmed he won't be available to start the season.

John Schneider with some major updates:

Bowden Francis to miss 2026 season following UCL surgery

Anthony Santander is out 5-6 months with labrum surgery tomorrow.

Shane Bieber is dealing with right forearm fatigue. Won't be ready to start season.

— Brandon Wile (@Brandon_N_Wile) February 10, 2026

The injury to Bieber may explain the Blue Jays' recent interest in Framber Valdez. Many were surprised to hear that the Blue Jays were in the mix given that they already had several starting options including Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, Jose Berrios, and Bieber. The injury to the latter may have been what led to their interest.

Bieber's injury, if serious, could also see Berrios remain in Toronto in a starting role in the short term. After being left off the playoff roster, there was plenty of speculation that the 31-year-old would be traded, though such a move has yet to take place.

The Blue Jays are set to begin spring training action on Feb. 21 versus the Philadelphia Phillies, while their season opener will come on March 27 versus the Athletics.