Blue Jays closer Sergio Santos needs season-ending shoulder surgery

TORONTO – Toronto Blue Jays closer Sergio Santos is being shut down for the season after it was found he needs shoulder surgery.

Santos felt discomfort in his shoulder as the intensity of his effort increased during a throwing session Saturday.

Blue Jays manager John Farrell says he hopes the 29-year-old right-hander will return to the team in time for spring training next season.

Santos was expected to bring a steady presence to the closer role after being acquired in a trade with the Chicago White Sox in December.

But he made just six appearances in April and had only four saves before being put on the disabled list following a game in Kansas City.

Farrell says the team doesn’t believe Santos was injured when they acquired him.