Blue Jays' Alejandro Kirk Injury Update Emerges Before Orioles Game
The Toronto Blue Jays have not been at full strength throughout the 2026 MLB season, and the injuries have continued to pile up across the roster. Among the most significant absences has been catcher Alejandro Kirk, who has not appeared in a major league game since April 3 after suffering a fractured and dislocated left thumb that later required surgery.
Toronto initially placed Kirk on the injured list shortly after the injury. The club formally transferred him to the 60-day IL on Wednesday as part of a series of roster moves involving additions to the club's 40-man roster. The move was procedural more than anything else, as Kirk has continued progressing through the later stages of his recovery program.
There have been encouraging signs throughout the past few weeks. Kirk has resumed throwing activity, gradually advanced into a hitting progression, and recently began taking live batting practice while continuing defensive work behind the scenes.
Ahead of Thursday's series opener against the Baltimore Orioles, another positive development emerged. Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling reported that Kirk was taking on-field batting practice.
At Blue Jays complex in Dunedin on Friday:
— Arden Zwelling (@ArdenZwelling) May 28, 2026
Tommy Nance & Yimi Garcia are throwing bullpens; Garcia's next step could be another live BP or a rehab game
Alejandro Kirk is taking on-field batting practice
Addison Barger's scheduled to resume hitting (could happen Saturday)
It's a meaningful checkpoint that signals Kirk's growing confidence and comfort swinging at full intensity again.
The next phase will involve hitting off a machine and a potential minor league rehab assignment by the time the Blue Jays return home on June 5, according to manager John Schneider (h/t Mitch Bannon of The Athletic). The organization still needs to monitor how the thumb responds to increased workload, but the progression toward game action is finally beginning to accelerate.
Toronto enters Thursday's matchup against Baltimore at 27-29, sitting third in the American League East as it tries to stay within striking distance in its division. The Blue Jays take the field at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. ET.
Related: Blue Jays' John Schneider Announces Max Scherzer News Before Orioles Game
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This story was originally published May 28, 2026 at 5:39 PM.