The 28-year-old hit .273 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs in 2014. Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Michael Saunders was on crutches Thursday and could be out until July with a freak knee injury that requires surgery.
Saunders tore the meniscus in his left knee Wednesday, when he stepped on a sprinkler head in the outfield while shagging fly balls.
“I just tried to walk off the field and not draw any attention to myself. Then, when I got into the training room, my knee felt like it was getting tight on the inside,” Saunders said. “I’ve never had any issues with my knees, so that’s when I knew that something was wrong.”
He said this is the first time he has had a knee injury — but had two stints on the disabled list in 2014 with oblique and shoulder issues — and will seek a second opinion before determining a course of action.
Saunders was acquired from the Seattle Mariners in an offseason trade. The 28-year-old hit .273 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs in 2014.
General manager Alex Anthopoulos said Thursday he made some calls Wednesday to find out who else could be available.
A few National League West teams have a surplus of outfielders. The San Diego Padres are reportedly shopping Carlos Quentin, but his injury history is likely enough for the Blue Jays to keep looking. The Los Angeles Dodgers could be looking to deal after a flurry of trades in the offseason.
