The 'What If': How Anthony Santander Could Have Rewritten Blue Jays' Playoff Destiny

Imagine a different 2022 MLB postseason, one where the Toronto Blue Jays possessed an extra, potent weapon in their lineup. For a fleeting moment, whispers and trade rumors linked Baltimore Orioles slugger Anthony Santander to the Blue Jays, conjuring a fascinating 'what if' scenario. While this move ultimately remained in the realm of speculation, the analytical allure of what Santander could have brought to Toronto, particularly in a high-stakes series against the Seattle Mariners, is a discussion worth revisiting.

Santander, a formidable switch-hitter, presented a tantalizing prospect for any contending team.

His ability to hit from both sides of the plate makes him a nightmare for opposing pitchers and a versatile asset in constructing a lineup. During the 2022 season, he showcased impressive power, launching 33 home runs and driving in 89 RBIs, all while maintaining a respectable .240 batting average. These numbers alone paint a picture of a player capable of injecting significant offensive firepower into an already dynamic Blue Jays squad.

The hypothetical pairing became particularly intriguing when considering a potential ALCS Game 3 matchup against the Seattle Mariners.

While the Blue Jays' actual postseason run ended in the Wild Card Series against Seattle, the article from October 2022 explored this deeper playoff scenario. The Mariners' pitching staff, featuring both dominant right-handers and effective southpaws, presented a diverse challenge. Santander's switch-hitting prowess would have been invaluable, offering managerial flexibility and a consistent threat regardless of who was on the mound.

Against right-handed pitching, Santander was a solid performer, but his numbers against lefties truly stood out.

His ability to handle southpaws with authority is a premium skill, especially in playoff baseball where tactical matchups dictate so much. The Blue Jays, while strong, sometimes struggled with offensive consistency, and a player like Santander could have provided that crucial extra dimension, turning tight games in their favor.

This 'what if' scenario underscores the relentless pursuit of perfection in professional sports.

General managers constantly scout for players who can fill specific needs, and Santander's profile fit many of the Blue Jays' potential requirements: power, versatility, and playoff experience. Though the trade never materialized, and the Blue Jays' 2022 season concluded differently, the thought of Anthony Santander donning a Toronto jersey and stepping up to the plate in a pivotal playoff game against the Mariners remains a compelling piece of baseball lore and a testament to the endless strategic possibilities within the game.