Blue Jays Outfielder Heads To Injured List

The Toronto Blue Jays are in a heated battle jockeying for position in the Wild Card race (and perhaps even the East Division race) in the American League. An injury to a key player is something they can't afford right now. Unfortunately, they'll have to make do without left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. for at least 10 days. 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr.‘s hamstring strain was described as “moderate”. Could be worse, could be better.

The #BlueJays will have a clearer timeline for him as the week goes on, but it’s possible he needs more than the minimum of 10 days.

— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) September 9, 2022

Gurriel has been placed on the 10-day IL with what's being described as a "moderate" left hamstring strain. It happened when his foot planted awkwardly on first base as he tried to run out a hit during Wednesday's win against the Baltimore Orioles.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. leaves the game with an apparent leg injury after beating out the backend of a double play. pic.twitter.com/6XhwyTDLLk

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) September 7, 2022

Manager John Schneider says "it's possible" that Gurriel could be out even longer than the 10 days.  

Gurriel has hit .291 this season with a .743 OPS, though his power is down with only five home runs.  

On the bright side, the Jays certainly have a plethora of candidates to take his spot in the outfield during his absence, including Raimel Tapia (who started Friday night's game in left), Jackie Bradley Jr., Cavan Biggio and Whit Merrifield.

ROSTER MOVES:

🔹 INF Otto Lopez recalled from Triple-A and will be active tonight

🔹 OF Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (left hamstring strain) placed on 10-day IL, retroactive to Sept. 8 pic.twitter.com/12Q1rdJmZA

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) September 9, 2022

The Jays have recalled infielder Otto Lopez from Buffalo to replace Gurriel on the roster.  

 Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports, Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports