Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander apologizes for sharing anti‑Muslim social media posts

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander apologized on Friday for sharing anti‑Muslim material on social media, saying the content had caused hurt and did not reflect his beliefs. The apology was posted to his Instagram story.

Santander said reflection and conversations with people he trusts made him realise he should have been more thoughtful about what he shared and about the responsibility that comes with having a public platform. He expressed respect for the Muslim community and pledged not to share content that promotes hate. The posts were shared on 4 November and deleted the following morning after public backlash.

The items Santander circulated included a video of a Christian preacher disparaging Muslims and a separate clip asserting that Sharia law would be imposed on the United States following Abdul El‑Sayed’s election to the US Senate in Michigan.

The apology came a day after Blue Jays president and chief executive Mark Shapiro apologised to the Muslim community and the team’s fans following a meeting with community leaders. General manager Ross Atkins had also publicly called on Santander to address the controversy.

Santander is a 32‑year‑old Venezuelan who signed a five‑year, $92.5m contract with Toronto in January 2025. He missed the entire 2026 season because of injuries.

The Blue Jays have not announced disciplinary action. It remains unclear whether the club will discipline Santander over the posts.