The Toronto Blue Jays announced Sunday that they have placed second baseman Andrés Giménez on the 10-day injured list due to a left ankle sprain, retroactive to July 5.
Giménez, 26, sustained the injury while running the bases in Friday’s series opener against the Los Angeles Angels. Though he initially remained in the game, further evaluation revealed swelling and instability in the ankle, prompting the team to move swiftly to protect one of their key infield contributors.
In a corresponding roster move, the Blue Jays recalled infielder Joey Loperfido from Triple-A Buffalo. Loperfido, who has been hitting .301 with 13 home runs in Buffalo this season, is expected to fill a utility role during Giménez’s absence.
Manager John Schneider addressed reporters before Sunday’s finale against the Angels, emphasizing caution with Giménez’s recovery timetable.
> “It’s something we want to stay ahead of,” Schneider said. “Andrés has been a big part of our lineup and defense, so we’re not going to rush him back before he’s 100%.”
Acquired this offseason in a high-profile trade with Cleveland, Giménez has settled into an everyday role at second base. Through 81 games, he is batting .278 with six home runs, 31 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, while providing steady defense up the middle.
The Blue Jays, riding an eight-game winning streak and holding first place in the American League East, are hoping to maintain their momentum despite a growing list of injuries. Reliever Yimi García was also recently placed on the 15-day IL with a separate ankle issue.
Toronto opens a road series against the Chicago White Sox on Monday. Loperfido and Cavan Biggio are expected to share time at second base until Giménez is cleared to return.
The Blue Jays will continue to monitor Giménez’s progress daily. If his recovery proceeds as hoped, he could rejoin the lineup shortly after the All-Star b
reak later this month.
