Anthony Santander apologizes after sharing discriminatory social media posts, Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins says the matter was “extremely concerning”

Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander issued an apology on his Instagram account after sharing social media posts that were described as discriminatory toward Muslims on the same platform.

MLB’s team release says Santander’s statement came after Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins discussed the posts at the GM Meetings in Las Vegas, describing them as “extremely concerning, extremely disappointing.” The report adds that Atkins spoke directly with Santander and told him he needed to address the matter publicly.

In his apology, Santander said he took time to reflect, spoke with people he trusts, recognized he should have been more thoughtful, and acknowledged that the content caused hurt. He also said he wants his communications to promote no hate and give no impression that he supports discrimination or violence against anyone.

The team release also reports that Blue Jays CEO and president Mark Shapiro issued a separate apology to the Muslim community and Blue Jays fans, and vowed to ensure the organization reflects the inclusive community the team represents.

Santander, 32, is entering the third year of a five-year, $92.5 million contract with Toronto. The report says he missed the entire 2026 season after undergoing shoulder surgery and has appeared in 54 games across his first two years with the Blue Jays.