Unfortunately, the Toronto Blue Jays have lost another significant player to the injured list. First baseman Brandon Belt went to the 10-day IL Tuesday due to muscle spasms in his lower back. It is definitely an added inconvenience for Toronto, as Belt was already dealing with a stomach virus where he missed some games. He left the game on Monday with back discomfort and was placed on the IL ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Texas Rangers. His injury doesn’t come at the best time, as the Blue Jays are battling to remain in the Wild Card race. The Jays are currently battling both the Rangers and the Seattle Mariners to take ownership of a spot in the postseason.
Brandon Belt Heads to IL With Lumbar Spine Muscle Spasms
ROSTER MOVES:
🔹 1B Brandon Belt (lumbar spine muscle spasms) placed on 10-day IL
🔹 OF Nathan Lukes recalled from Triple-A and will be active tonight pic.twitter.com/WYZcGnVvO5
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) September 12, 2023
The Veteran Brandon Belt
Brandon Belt had a relatively slow start to the 2023 season for the Jays, but he came out with a loud bang in the second half. Belt’s veteran presence goes a long way, and we know that he brings power with his bat. Belt hit his last home run on September 1st, and we cannot forget when he hit two home runs in the game against the Cincinnati Reds on August 20th.
Brandon Belt (16)
Opponent: Colorado Rockies
Pitcher: Chris Flexen
Date: 9/1/23 pic.twitter.com/VnMsS53t6u— TOR Home Runs (@TOR__HR) September 2, 2023
In addition, Belt homered on August 22nd and 24th against the Baltimore Orioles. Belt had a very strong month in August offensively, so his bat will definitely be missed. The veteran mentioned that he is considering retiring after this season. In that case, hopefully he won’t be out for long because if the Blue Jays make the postseason, having Belt in the lineup will definitely be a threat. Also, having his postseason experience will without question be a bonus. After the IL move, Toronto promoted outfielder Nathan Lukes from Triple-A Buffalo.
Unfortunate Injuries
Not having Belt in the lineup against the Rangers definitely stings for Toronto. Considering he was lighting it up offensively in recent games, not having him in the lineup definitely has an impact. But thankfully, the Blue Jays have lots of options offensively. Still, it’s always an added bonus to have all the regulars in the lineup. The team is still waiting for Matt Chapman to return from the IL, and they also recently lost Danny Jansen to the IL with a fractured finger.
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Fortunately, though, the Blue Jays have Bo Bichette back in the lineup and their youngsters are also contributing offense. Guys like Spencer Horwitz, Davis Schneider, and Ernie Clement have really been impressive in replacement roles this season. Having these young players gain attention has not only been a pleasant surprise but also makes losing regular players to injuries sting a lot less. Guys like Cavan Biggio have also really stepped it up offensively, and it is refreshing to have all these different players contribute.
Filling the Void
Losing Belt to a lumbar spine issue definitely isn’t something to smile about. But with this current lineup, we know that offense can come from various players. This season, it is the younger players that have come to the rescue when the regulars have either been injured or haven’t been contributing offensively. If the Blue Jays are able to make it into the postseason it will be nice to see Brandon Belt play his heart out and utilize his veteran skills. Also, since Belt supposedly intends to retire next season, the Jays will want to take advantage of everything he has left to offer. Belt has put up great numbers in his career and it would be beneficial for Toronto to get every ounce of offense he has left in him.
Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
