Blue Jays' Alejandro Kirk Update Emerges Before Pirates Game
The Toronto Blue Jays are beginning to build momentum after a difficult start to the 2026 MLB season. Entering Sunday's series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates with a 25-27 record and riding a four-game winning streak, the Blue Jays have now won seven of their last ten games. In third place in the American League East, Toronto is hoping to continue climbing the American League standings.
While the Blue Jays have recently shown signs of improvement, injuries continue to be a concern for last year's American League-winning club. Veteran catcher Alejandro Kirk has yet to return since suffering a fractured left thumb in a game against the Chicago White Sox on April 3.
With the Blue Jays starting to build some momentum, the club is hopeful that Kirk's return can provide the offensive production needed to turn their season around.
The Blue Jays may finally be getting closer to welcoming Kirk back. According to MLB.com's Keegan Matheson, Kirk was back throwing on the field Sunday morning as he continues progressing through his recovery process.
"Alejandro Kirk is throwing on the field this morning. Hitting is still going to be his last hurdle, but he's getting closer. Kirk is the biggest missing piece this season," Matheson shared on X.
Alejandro Kirk is throwing on the field this morning. (He's the dot to the left of the foul pole, in the middle).
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) May 24, 2026
Hitting is still going to be his last hurdle, but he's getting closer. Kirk is the biggest missing piece this season. #BlueJayspic.twitter.com/r156IwTqi6
The 27-year-old two-time All-Star only appeared in five games for Toronto this season before his injury, and the organization will hope that when he returns, he is able to match his production from last season. In 2025, Kirk hit .282 with a .769 OPS and 15 home runs.
Kirk has arguably been the "biggest missing piece" throughout the Blue Jays' struggling season so far. Beyond his production at the plate, the Blue Jays have also missed Kirk's leadership and calm demeanor in high-leverage situations.
While Kirk must still progress through additional hitting work before returning to the field, his continued recovery is an encouraging sign for the Blue Jays as they look to turn their season around through the summer months.
Related: Blue Jays' John Schneider Shares Reason for Kazuma Okamoto's Removal From Lineup
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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 10:29 AM.