Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander issues apology for sharing controversial posts
Anthony Santander apologized for posting material that disparaged Muslims, saying he should have been more thoughtful about his public platform.
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander issued an apology on Friday after sharing social-media posts that targeted the Muslim community. In an Instagram statement, Santander said reflection and conversations with trusted individuals made him realize he "should have been more thoughtful" about what he shared and the responsibility that comes with a public voice. He expressed respect for the Muslim community and pledged to avoid sharing content that promotes hate.
Santander posted the material on Nov. 4 and removed it the following morning. The posts included a video of a Christian preacher criticizing Muslims and another suggesting that Sharia law would be imposed in the United States after a hypothetical election of Abdul El-Sayed to the Senate in Michigan. The apology followed a statement from Blue Jays president and CEO Mark Shapiro to the Muslim community and fans after a meeting with community leaders, and it came after general manager Ross Atkins asked Santander to address the controversy publicly.
The 32-year-old Venezuelan signed a $92.5 million, five-year contract with Toronto in January 2025. He missed the entire 2026 season due to injuries.