After a brief absence from the Toronto Blue Jays, outfielder George Springer has returned to the team following his time on the paternity list. Springer, who became a father for the first time, took advantage of Major League Baseball’s paternity leave policy to spend time with his newborn child and support his family during this special time.
The paternity list allows players to take up to three days off to be with their families after the birth or adoption of a child. This policy recognizes the importance of family and provides players with the opportunity to bond with their newborns and support their partners during this significant life event.
Springer’s return to the Blue Jays is highly anticipated, as he is a key player in the team’s lineup. The 31-year-old outfielder signed a six-year, $150 million contract with the Blue Jays in the offseason, making him one of the highest-paid players in franchise history. His addition to the team was seen as a significant move to bolster the Blue Jays’ chances of competing in the highly competitive American League East division.
Before his brief absence, Springer had already made an impact on the team. In his first game as a Blue Jay on April 28th, he hit two home runs and helped lead the team to a victory over the Washington Nationals. However, shortly after that game, he was placed on the injured list due to a strained right quad muscle. While recovering from his injury, Springer utilized his time away from the field to support his partner during the birth of their child.
Now that he has returned from the paternity list, Springer’s presence will undoubtedly provide a boost to the Blue Jays’ offense. Known for his power-hitting ability and exceptional defense, Springer brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. He spent his first seven seasons with the Houston Astros, where he played a crucial role in their World Series championship run in 2017.
The Blue Jays have high expectations for the 2021 season, and Springer’s return will only strengthen their chances of success. With a talented roster that includes young stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and Cavan Biggio, the addition of Springer adds another dynamic player to an already potent lineup.
In addition to his on-field contributions, Springer’s return also brings a positive energy and camaraderie to the team. His leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable as the Blue Jays navigate through a long and grueling 162-game season.
As Springer steps back onto the field, Blue Jays fans eagerly await his impact on the team’s performance. His return not only signifies his commitment to the game but also highlights the importance of family and the support system that baseball provides for its players during significant life events.
The Toronto Blue Jays are fortunate to have George Springer back in their lineup, and his return will undoubtedly be a significant factor in their pursuit of success this season. As he continues to settle into his new role as a father, Springer’s dedication to both his family and the game of baseball serves as an inspiration to his teammates and fans alike.
