Alejandro Kirk injury concern grows as Blue Jays await X-ray results after his exit

The Toronto Blue Jays are awaiting updates on a catcher Alejandro Kirk, after he left Friday’s extra-inning loss to the Chicago White Sox with a left thumb issue.

Kirk exited in the 10th inning after taking a foul tip off his glove, which appeared to strike his thumb.

He immediately grabbed his hand and walked off the field with the training staff. The team later confirmed he underwent X-rays.

Manager John Schneider said: “It’s more the thumb. It sucks. It hurts, especially on a cold day. We’re hoping that it’s nothing serious. He’s about as tough as they come, so for him to come out, you don’t love it. It was just all thumb, no wrist.”

Backup catcher Tyler Heineman replaced Kirk, but a throwing error soon after allowed the tying run to score.

The White Sox then secured the win on a walk-off single.

Pitcher Dylan Cease said: “That’s extremely unfortunate. He’s a big part of the team. I hope he’s OK. He’s a big part of this team.”

The club may consider calling up a replacement if the injury proves serious, with Brandon Valenzuela among the likely options.