George Springer’s future in MLB is uncertain. He has just one game remaining under contract with the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of Sunday’s series finale against the Cincinnati Reds.
His six-year, $150 million deal has finally come to a close with a disappointing end considering Toronto is not heading to the postseason this year.
Regardless, Springer’s tenure with the Blue Jays has been worth every penny. He helped the club to the playoffs three times in 2022, 2023 and 2025, highlighted by a go-ahead three-run home run in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners that sent Toronto to the World Series.
He also earned an All-Star selection, a Silver Slugger and a top-10 finish in AL MVP voting during his time with the organization.
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Springer also established himself as one of the best leadoff hitters in MLB history during his time in Toronto. He has not hit leadoff in over a month though, not playing there since August 18.
The main reasoning has been the team’s struggles to drive in runs, and with Springer swinging a hot bat in the second half, manager John Schneider moved him down in the order.
In the second half, the 37-year-old veteran has posted a .286 batting average, .342 on-base percentage, .781 OPS, six home runs and 32 RBIs.
Springer did not play Saturday against the Reds but will be in the lineup Sunday, which could mark his last game ever in a Blue Jays uniform.
As a tribute to him, Schneider shared he plans on moving Springer back to the leadoff spot to honor his legacy as one of the best hitters at that position in MLB history (h/t Mitch Bannon of The Athletic).
After the game, what comes next for Springer is genuinely unclear. He is clearly still capable of being a solid hitter in MLB, though he is now more of a designated hitter than an everyday outfielder, which is what his role would be if Toronto brings him back.
With a growing family and 13 seasons already accomplished, retirement is also not ruled out.
