The Toronto Blue Jays have made Anthony Santander their major signing of the off-season after signing him to a five-year, $92.5 million contract earlier this week. Until now, the switch-hitting outfielder had spent his entire eight-year major league career with the Baltimore Orioles.
On Tuesday, Anthony Santander posted a heartfelt message of gratitude to the Baltimore Orioles and their fanbase via Instagram after leaving the team in free agency to join their American League East rivals.
"Thank you, Baltimore," he wrote. "Camden Yards and the incredible energy of Orioles fans made playing here unforgettable. Birdland’s support has meant the world to me. From my first Major League hit to my first All-Star season, every step of this journey has been a blessing.
"I’m grateful to the Orioles organization for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to grow here. To my teammates and the staff, thank you for standing united, for pushing me to be my best, and for building a brotherhood I cherish.
"Though my journey with the Orioles has come to an end, I thank God for the people I’ve met, the lessons I’ve learned, and the memories I’ll carry forever. Thank you for everything."
The five-year contract of Anthony Santander with the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly contains a player opt-out after the fourth year. However, the Blue Jays can negate the option for the player by adding a sixth year to the deal, thereby raising the total value to $110 million.
Outstanding 2024 season of Anthony Santander
Anthony Santander became one of the most coveted free agents of this off-season, especially in the market for position players, after an excellent campaign in 2024. Santander was chosen for his maiden All-Star Game following a strong start to the year. He eventually ended the regular season with a career-high 44 home runs and 102 RBIs for the Baltimore Orioles.
As a result, Santander finished with the third highest homers in the MLB last year, behind only Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge. He also finished in ninth spot in the RBI board for the American League. Meanwhile, Santander also posted the most home runs by a switch-hitter since 2006, joining an elite group of just eight players to get 40 or more home runs in a season from both sides of the plate.