Blue Jays Scratch Addison Barger from Lineup Following Record-Breaking Throw

The Toronto Blue Jays have scratched outfielder Addison Barger from Sunday’s lineup due to right elbow soreness, the team announced prior to first pitch. The move comes just one day after Barger made a historic play that may have come at a physical cost.

A Record-Breaking Play with a Price

While the team didn’t explicitly state how the injury occurred, the timing points toward a standout moment from Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. In the second inning, Barger unleashed a long throw from right field to home plate to cut down Jorge Soler and end the inning.

That throw was clocked at 101.2 mph, marking the fastest assist by a Blue Jay in the Statcast era. However, the exertion appeared to take a toll. MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson reported that Barger was seen with a large ice wrap on his right elbow—similar to those worn by pitchers—when he met with the media following the Blue Jays’ 14-1 victory on Saturday.

Lineup Adjustments

Barger was originally slated to bat leadoff and start in right field for Sunday’s contest. To fill the void, manager John Schneider has shifted the roster as follows:

• Ernie Clement: Will now serve as the leadoff hitter.
• Jesus Sanchez: Takes over in right field.
• Myles Straw: Enters the lineup to play left field.

A Difficult Road to Rhythm

This setback is particularly frustrating for the 26-year-old, who is still fighting to find his groove this season. Barger only returned to action on Saturday after an ankle injury—sustained during a game against the Chicago White Sox—had sidelined him since April 5.

His return on Saturday was quiet at the plate, going 0-for-3 with two walks. Through nine games this season, Barger is struggling with a .045/.219/.091 slash line, recording zero home runs and two RBI.

Key Takeaways: Addison Barger Injury Update

• Injury: Right elbow soreness.
• Catalyst: A Statcast-era record assist of 101.2 mph on Saturday.
• Recent History: Recently returned from a left ankle sprain that kept him out since early April.
• Immediate Impact: Scratched from Sunday’s lineup vs. The Angels. Ernie Clement moves to leadoff.

Looking Ahead

The Blue Jays will conclude their current series with the Angels on Sunday afternoon. The team then shifts focus to a three-game home set against the Tampa Bay Rays, which begins Monday. The team’s ability to maintain outfield depth will be critical if Barger’s elbow soreness requires an extended absence.