Baseball player George Springer returns to competition versus the Rangers.
George Springer Returns to Toronto Blue Jays Lineup After Concussion Recovery
After a 16-game absence due to a concussion, George Springer made his return to the Toronto Blue Jays lineup on August 16, 2025. The 35-year-old outfielder and leadoff hitter had been sidelined since July 28, when he sustained the injury from a fastball thrown by Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kade Strowd [2][7].
Before his injury, Springer was having a stellar season. In 101 games, he hit .291 with a slugging percentage of .506 and an on-base percentage of .383. He also racked up 18 home runs and 57 RBIs, as well as 12 stolen bases. His wRC+ stood at 148, placing him among the top hitters in baseball [1][4].
During Springer's absence, the Blue Jays relied on other players to maintain offensive production. However, his return provides a significant boost, especially as the team pursues its first division title since 2015. His return strengthens the lineup's run-producing capability and offers veteran leadership and experience [1][5].
Springer's ability to serve primarily as a designated hitter (DH) allows the Blue Jays to keep him fresh and maximize his offensive contributions while managing his health post-concussion [1].
To make room for Springer on the roster, the Blue Jays optioned outfielder Joey Loperfido to the team's AAA affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons. Loperfido had 3 home runs and 10 RBIs in 30 games with the Blue Jays this season, but his .358 batting average with the team will be missed [3].
During his rehab, Springer played two plate appearances with the Buffalo Bisons on Friday, including a home run in his second at-bat [6]. His third and final rehab outing will determine when he will officially rejoin the Blue Jays' active roster.
With Springer back in the lineup, the Blue Jays' pursuit of postseason success in the 2025 season is further bolstered by his offensive contributions and strategic flexibility in the DH role [1][4].
[1] - Toronto Star [2] - Sportsnet [3] - MLB.com [4] - ESPN [5] - Yahoo Sports [6] - Buffalo News [7] - The Athletic
George Springer's return to the Toronto Blue Jays lineup will no doubt revitalize their sports performance, especially in baseball, considering his impressive stats in the MLB before his concussion. With the added run-producing capability and veteran experience, the team's pursuit of a division title in the 2025 season is further bolstered by his offensive contributions as a designated hitter.
