Santander's Homer, Role Shift Boost Blue Jays

Anthony Santander played a key role in the Toronto Blue Jays' 7-6 extra-innings comeback win over the Boston Red Sox, hitting a crucial three-run homer that marked a rare power surge for the team. Santander, who signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract in the offseason, has started the season slowly with a .175 batting average and only four home runs. Blue Jays manager John Schneider plans to increase Santander's outfield duties, believing defensive involvement could help reignite his offense—a sentiment shared by Santander, who acknowledges he performs better when playing in the field. Recent home runs offer hope of a turnaround as Toronto seeks more consistency from its struggling lineup. The return of injured center fielder Daulton Varsho is expected to facilitate Santander's increased outfield starts. The team hopes these adjustments will maximize Santander's impact and boost overall offensive production.