Blue Jays Manager John Schneider Shares Key Addison Barger Injury Update

Blue Jays Manager John Schneider Shares Key Addison Barger Injury Update originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The early portion of the 2026 season has not gone according to plan for the Toronto Blue Jays, and injuries have played a major role in that reality. With multiple key contributors missing time, the roster has struggled to find consistency both at the plate and in the field.

One of the more notable absences has been Addison Barger, who landed on the 10-day injured list with a left ankle sprain. The injury occurred during a routine hustle play, a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift early in a long MLB season.

Barger’s absence has stretched into nine games, leaving a noticeable gap in Toronto’s lineup at a time when offensive production has already been difficult to come by.

John Schneider Offers Update On Barger’s Status

Manager John Schneider addressed Barger’s situation, signaling that the organization is closely monitoring his recovery rather than rushing him back into action.

While no firm return date has been locked in, the update suggests the team is taking a cautious approach with the 26-year-old. That decision reflects both the nature of ankle injuries and the importance of having Barger at full strength over the course of a 162-game schedule.

For Toronto, this is less about a quick fix and more about ensuring long-term stability. Bringing Barger back too soon could risk a setback that extends his absence even further.

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Why Barger’s Return Matters More Than Early Struggles

On the surface, Barger’s 2026 numbers prior to the injury did not stand out. He managed just one hit in his first 19 at-bats, a slow start that mirrored the team’s broader offensive struggles.