Anthony Santander Played Rehab Game for Buffalo Bisons

The veteran outfielder returned to the field in Buffalo following a season-long absence due to surgery.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Baseball

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a baseball player swinging a bat in a stadium, rendered with gestural brush strokes. — Outfielder Anthony Santander played for the Buffalo Bisons on Friday, marking his first rehab game appearance following surgery on his left shoulder. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Anthony Santander played in a rehab game for the Buffalo Bisons on Friday as he works to recover from left shoulder surgery. The outfielder, who signed a massive deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, has missed the entire 2026 season.

Why it matters

The appearance marks a significant step in Santander's efforts to return to professional play after undergoing surgery in February 2026. He previously faced a setback earlier this week when he was scratched from the lineup due to mid-back discomfort.

Santander is playing on a five-year, $92.5-million contract signed during the 2024-25 off-season. He recorded one hit in seven at-bats over his two rehab appearances with the Buffalo Bisons.

The players

Anthony Santander

He is a 31-year-old outfielder who won a Silver Slugger Award in 2024 after hitting 44 home runs.

Buffalo Bisons

They are the Triple-A affiliate team currently hosting Santander for his rehabilitation games.

Toronto Blue Jays

This major league organization signed Santander to a five-year contract during the 2024-25 off-season.

Rochester Red Wings

They are the opponent for the final series of the season for the Buffalo Bisons.

The details

Batting leadoff and playing left field, Santander continues his recovery process after being sidelined for the entire current season. His return to the field comes just days before the Buffalo Bisons conclude their final series of the year.

Anthony Santander underwent left shoulder surgery in February 2026.
Santander played in a rehab game for the Buffalo Bisons on September 18, 2026.
The Buffalo Bisons season concludes against the Rochester Red Wings on September 20, 2026.

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Sept. 19
Buffalo Bisons Released Infielder Lenyn Sosa
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Sept. 21
Buffalo Bisons Released Catcher William Simoneit
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Sept. 19
Buffalo Bisons Defeated Rochester Red Wings 7-1

Season Trajectory

Santander's absence throughout the 2026 season leaves a significant void in the Toronto Blue Jays' lineup following his high-profile signing. His return to the field signals the beginning of a long-term plan to reintegrate the slugger into the team's core roster for future campaigns.

Santander did not contribute to any Toronto Blue Jays games this season despite his $92.5-million contract value. The rehab stint serves exclusively as a bridge for his preparation for next season's roster competition.

The takeaway

The return of a star athlete to minor league action is a critical milestone in recovery from major surgical procedures. Fans should monitor his progress through the off-season as he looks to regain the form that led to his 2024 award-winning season.