Toronto Blue Jays: No reason to be concerned with George Springer…yet

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA - MARCH 20: George Springer #4 of the Toronto Blue Jays slides into third on a wild pitch by Connor Brogdon of the Philadelphia Phillies in the fifth inning during a spring training game on March 20, 2021 at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
CLEARWATER, FLORIDA - MARCH 20: George Springer #4 of the Toronto Blue Jays slides into third on a wild pitch by Connor Brogdon of the Philadelphia Phillies in the fifth inning during a spring training game on March 20, 2021 at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /
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The Toronto Blue Jays gave their fanbase reason for concern on Sunday. George Springer, who had just been activated from the Injured List, was removed from the game in the sixth inning. Considering how recently he had been activated, and the unexpected delay in his return from the IL, it was easy to assume the worst.

However, this may not be the disaster that one would have expected. Springer had been feeling fatigue in his legs and was removed from the game as a precautionary measure. The expectation is that this is just a minor issue and not something that the Blue Jays or Springer should be concerned about.

Toronto Blue Jays should not be concerned with George Springer…yet

The Blue Jays had been waiting to get Springer into their lineup. He was their prized free agent signing last year, inking a six year deal worth $150 million. Springer was expected to be the catalyst atop the lineup that Toronto needed, adding another dynamic player to an already formidable lineup.

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Springer, in just four games, has displayed why he was coveted by the Blue Jays. Although he has just three hits in his 18 plate appearances, he has belted two homes and stolen a base. He has drawn two walks while striking out four times, helping to set the table as Toronto swept the Braves.

His importance to the lineup, and his early production, underscore why the Blue Jays should be cautious. Springer had been dealing with a quad injury as well, which coupled with the heat, could explain the fatigue he felt. But this is something that can be managed properly without requiring another sting on the IL.

It would make sense to get Springer an extra day off when the schedule allows, or to remove him early in a blowout situation. These temporary measures could suffice until his legs are back in game shape, and he is ready to be in the lineup every day. After all, it is better to miss a day or two than to have him head back to the IL due to that fatigue or his quad issue.

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There is no reason for the Toronto Blue Jays to be concerned with George Springer just yet. But it does make sense to be cautious in the near future.