Toronto Blue Jays reliever Erik Swanson has made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from the team to be by his family's side following a tragic incident involving his son, Toby. The four-year-old boy was struck by a car on Sunday, February 25, and was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Fortunately, Toby is reported to be on the path to recovery, and manager John Schneider commended the swift actions of the first responders in Clearwater for their remarkable efforts.

Expressing the team's full support during this challenging time, Schneider emphasized that Erik's absence from the team is understandable as family always comes first. "Our love, support, and prayers are with the entire Swanson family," Schneider stated on Tuesday, February 27.

In a show of solidarity, the Blue Jays organization also extended a heartfelt message to the Swanson family during this difficult period.

Erik Swanson, who is entering his second season with Toronto and his sixth in the majors overall, has been a valued member of the team's bullpen. Standing at 6-foot-3, the right-hander has accumulated a record of 8-14 with 10 saves and a commendable 3.78 ERA across 195 games in his career.

Erik and his wife Madison, who tied the knot in 2018, are parents to Toby and their one-year-old daughter Parker. The family had recently celebrated Toby's fourth birthday on January 19, with Erik expressing his love for his son on Instagram. Madison also shared a heartfelt tribute to Toby on her own Instagram account, describing him as a beacon of positivity and love in their lives.

As Erik Swanson takes time away from the game to be with his family, the Blue Jays community stands in solidarity with him, offering their unwavering support during this challenging period.