Blue Jays Tap Ernie Clement to Lead Off After Springer Injury

Toronto places star outfielder on 10-day IL with left big toe fracture

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:34pm

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A cubist, fragmented painting depicting the dynamic movements and action of a baseball game, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, red, and yellow.A fractured, geometric illustration captures the energy and motion of a baseball game, reflecting the Blue Jays' need to adapt to George Springer's injury.Chicago Today

The Toronto Blue Jays have placed star outfielder George Springer on the 10-day injured list with a left big toe fracture. In his absence, utility player Ernie Clement will take over the leadoff spot in the lineup.

Why it matters

Springer's injury is a significant blow to the Blue Jays, who entered the season with championship expectations but have stumbled to a 6-8 start. The team is already dealing with multiple injuries, and Springer's absence could make an already difficult stretch even harder to navigate.

The details

Springer was hurt on Saturday when he fouled a ball off his left foot during the third inning of Toronto's loss to the Minnesota Twins. Initial X-rays revealed a small fracture in his left big toe. In a corresponding move, the Blue Jays selected the contract of outfielder Eloy Jimenez from Triple-A Buffalo to take Springer's spot on the 26-man roster.

  • Springer was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • Springer was injured on Saturday, April 11, 2026 during the third inning of Toronto's game against the Minnesota Twins.

The players

George Springer

The star outfielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, who was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left big toe fracture.

Ernie Clement

A utility player for the Toronto Blue Jays who will take over the leadoff spot in the lineup while Springer is sidelined.

Eloy Jimenez

An outfielder who was selected from Triple-A Buffalo to take Springer's spot on the 26-man roster.

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What’s next

The severity of Springer's fracture will ultimately determine the timeline for his return. Last season, other players with similar toe injuries missed minimal time, but a prolonged absence for Springer would be a significant challenge for the Blue Jays as they try to get their season back on track.

The takeaway

Springer's injury is a major setback for the Blue Jays, who are already dealing with a rash of injuries to key players. The team will need to find a way to weather Springer's absence and get production from players like Ernie Clement if they hope to get their championship aspirations back on track.