Addison Barger Injury: John Schneider Announces Update on Outfielder Before Blue Jays Game 

Barger has not played since April 5 after injuring both ankles while sprinting to first base in a game against the Chicago White Sox. He was subsequently placed on the 10-day injured list with only the left ankle sprain.

Since then, Barger has steadily progressed. He began a rehab assignment on Sunday and immediately showed he is close to returning, launching a two-tun home run in his first game action. He served as the designated hitter, but the Blue Jays expect him to return to the field soon.

On Monday, ahead of the series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays , manager John Schneider outlined the plan for Barger. Schneider said the club is aiming to activate him over the weekend.

Barger, speaking with reporters, added that he feels good and expects to play again during his rehab assignment on Tuesday and possibly Wednesday (h/t Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet).

This is good news for the Blue Jays, who have been waiting for reinforcements after a difficult first month. Barger will also look to put the first eight games of his 2026 season behind him. He collected just one hit in his first 23 plate appearances before going down with the injury.

Toronto will open a homestand this Friday against the Los Angeles Angels after wrapping up its current road trip in Tampa Bay, and Barger appears on track to rejoin the lineup.