Toronto Blue Jays executives have condemned social media posts by outfielder Anthony Santander, while Santander himself has yet to issue a public apology.
After the U.S. midterm elections, Santander shared posts on Instagram about Islam. One referred to newly elected Michigan Democratic senator Abdulrahman El-Sayed and said, “America voted for Sharia last night.” Another stated, “Islam is not peaceful.”
General manager Ross Atkins said he was disappointed by the posts and described them as anti-Islamic hate. He also said he had spoken with Santander about what he called the player’s lack of awareness.
Reports said the team asked Santander to apologize publicly. So far, he has not done so, though he has shared posts related to the controversy on Instagram. The team’s president and CEO, Mark Shapiro, later issued a statement on the organization’s behalf.
Shapiro said the Blue Jays had met with leaders from Muslim communities in Toronto, who described the harm caused by Santander’s posts. He said the conversations reaffirmed the team’s position.
“We condemn Islamophobia and all forms of hate,” the statement said. Shapiro apologized to Muslim communities and fans for the hurt caused by the posts, and said the club would work with community leaders to oppose hate. He also pledged to help ensure the organization reflects the inclusive community it calls home.
Santander joined Toronto after three strong seasons with the Baltimore Orioles. In 2024, he made the All-Star team and won a Silver Slugger award.
He has dealt with injuries during his time with the Blue Jays and is under a five-year, $92.5 million contract, averaging $18.5 million annually through 2030. With that salary and his recent injury history, finding a trade partner could be difficult. Large portions of the contract were deferred, meaning the team may owe him at least $5 million a year through 2046.
