Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander apologizes for Islamophobic Instagram posts
Anthony Santander issued an Instagram apology after sharing videos that disparaged Islam, prompting a response from the Toronto Blue Jays organization.
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander posted an apology on Instagram on Friday, nine days after sharing two videos on his story that portrayed Islam negatively. One video claimed “America voted for Sharia Last Night!” alongside an image of U.S. Senate-elect Abdul El-Sayed, and the other stated that “Islam is not peaceful.”
Santander’s statement read: “I realize that this content caused hurt and I sincerely apologize. I should have been more thoughtful about what I shared, recognizing the responsibility that comes with having a public voice.”
The apology follows remarks from Blue Jays management. General manager Ross Atkins said he had spoken to Santander both publicly and privately about the posts, expressing disappointment. Team president Mark Shapiro, after meeting with leaders of Toronto’s Muslim community, issued a statement condemning Islamophobia and all forms of hate.
Santander, who signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract before the 2025 season, has appeared in 54 regular-season games over his first two seasons due to shoulder and back injuries. The contract includes deferred payments, making a trade unlikely.