The Toronto Blue Jays apologized Thursday after advocacy groups criticized outfielder Anthony Santander for political posts he shared on Instagram last week. Before the apology, the team met with local Muslim community leaders.
In a statement, team president and CEO Mark Shapiro said the leaders described the harm caused by Santander’s posts. He said the meeting gave the organization a chance to listen and learn, and reaffirmed its commitment to opposing Islamophobia and other forms of hate.
Shapiro apologized to Muslim community members and Blue Jays fans, saying the club would work with community leaders to combat hate and make sure the organization reflects the inclusive community it calls home.
Santander drew criticism after progressive Democrat Abdul El-Sayed won Michigan’s U.S. Senate race. Santander, who grew up in Venezuela under socialist rule, shared several Instagram stories from other accounts. One included a thumbnail of El-Sayed alongside the words “America voted for Sharia last night.” Others featured the claims “Islam is not peaceful” and “there is no such thing as kind Muslims.” Santander removed the posts two days later.
Advocacy groups and online critics called on the team to release the outfielder. Steven Zhou of the National Council of Canadian Muslims said members of the community were “very, very upset.” Zhou attended Thursday’s meeting and said the team had committed to sending Santander to educational training. Shapiro’s statement did not mention any disciplinary action.
Santander has not apologized or spoken publicly about the posts. Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said Tuesday that he was deeply disappointed and had told Santander he needed to address the situation.
The Blue Jays and Major League Baseball have not announced a fine, suspension or roster move. Releasing Santander would leave Toronto responsible for $49 million in guaranteed salary. Since signing with the club in 2025, he has appeared in only 54 games and missed the entire 2026 season after shoulder surgery.
