Toronto Blue Jays' Brett Bateman (21) scores on an RBI single hit by Nathan Lukes during the first inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
September 21, 2026 - 6:27 PM
BALTIMORE (AP) — Toronto's last-ditch push for a playoff spot is encountering quite a few roadblocks.
Already dealing with health concerns for both Dylan Cease and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Blue Jays lost rookie outfielder Brett Bateman on Monday night when he hurt his hip making a sliding catch in the second inning.
Bateman held onto the ball to retire Baltimore's Rece Hinds, but his slide left a divot in the ground — not a great sign — and he rolled over awkwardly after making the catch. Bateman was able to walk off the field, but very slowly, and he was replaced the next time Toronto was in the field.
X-rays on Bateman were negative.
The Blue Jays entered the day three games behind the Chicago White Sox for the final wild card in the American League. Guerrero was out of the lineup because of back trouble. Starting pitcher Trey Yesavage was limited to two innings in his first game back from knee inflammation. Cease is dealing with shoulder issues and it's not clear when or if he'll make another start this season.
Toronto acquired Bateman in the August trade that sent Kevin Gausman to the Chicago Cubs. He has hit .320 in 38 games since making his big league debut for the Blue Jays on Aug. 7.
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