(Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images)

Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer is close to a return to the field. Very close.

It is expected that Springer will be activated from the injured list on Wednesday in time to play in a 3:07 p.m. game against the Boston Red Sox. He has been out of the lineup since he fractured the big toe on his left foot on April 11 in a game against the Minnesota Twins when he hit a ball off the foot.

At the time of the injury, Springer, 36, was off to a slower start than usual on the season. In 14 games, he was hitting .185 (10-of-54) with four doubles, two home runs and six RBIs, and the Blue Jays stood at 6-8.

They are 6-8 without him, as well, not including the result of the Wednesday night game against the Red Sox.

Springer is a four-time All-Star who has finished seventh in the American League Most Valuable Player voting twice, including in 2025 when he hit .309 with 32 home runs, 84 RBIs and 18 stolen bases in 140 games for the American League champions. He also won a Silver Slugger.

In the postseason, Springer was a key contributor for the Blue Jays despite battling injury. In 16 games, he was 19-of-67 (.285) at the plate with four homers and 10 runs driven in.

In his absence, the leadoff spot has been manned by committee, with Nathan Lukes, Myles Straw, Ernie Clement and Davis Schneider taking turns.

Load management

Manager John Schneider told reporters Tuesday about Springer’s upcoming return on Wednesday, provided there are no last-minute setbacks. He has been hitting and running on the field to get ready.