Blue Jays Facing Season-Ending Addison Barger Decision

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Blue Jays Facing Season-Ending Addison Barger Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Tate Mosher | Last updated Jul 17, 2026 5:15 PM ET

Heading into their first series of the second half, the Toronto Blue Jays have a lot of work to do in the standings. They are currently 45-51, last in the American League East and 11 ½ games behind the first-place Tampa Bay Rays.

Injuries have played a central role in the team’s fall from grace this season. They won the American League in 2025 for the first time since 1993, but have not been able to defend it well thus far.

Right fielder/third baseman Addison Barger has had perhaps the most frustrating bout of injuries out of all Blue Jays this season. He first dealt with sprained left ankle in April, then right elbow inflammation in May and June, and now he has a stress reaction in his back to contend with as well.

The 26-year-old has appeared in just nine games this year, going 1-for-22 with five walks. Barger appeared in 135 games last season, posting much better numbers.

He slashed .243/.301/.454 for a .755 OPS, 21 home runs and 74 RBIs. These solid 2025 regular season numbers gave way to a monster postseason. Barger tallied 68 plate appearances, slugging .583 with 35 total bases.

With only 66 games to go in 2026, the utility’s injuries do not seem to be healing well. Mitch Bannon of The Athletic reported Friday that they are “still bothering him.” The club may have a tough decision to make sooner rather than later.

Due to the severity of the injuries, it is still unclear when Barger will be healthy enough for any rehab. When he eventually clears that hurdle, a whole ramp-up process would take weeks at the very least.

It may depend on where Toronto is in the race for what they decide to do regarding the situation. Getting Barger ready to go as quickly as possible if they are not in contention might not be the best course.

The Blue Jays have a long climb to make, including 26 games against AL East opponents. They begin the second half against the Chicago White Sox, Friday at 7:15 p.m. ET. Right-hander Spencer Miles will get the start.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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