Blue Jays President Mark Shapiro and General Manager Ross Atkins expressed their disappointment in falling just short of a World Series victory during a recent media appearance. Reflecting on their journey, Atkins noted that while the final outcome wasn’t what they had hoped for, the team had exceeded expectations throughout the season.
The Blue Jays staged an impressive turnaround, going from last place in the AL East the previous year to clinching the division title and securing the top seed in the AL with a 94-win season. The team’s postseason success included their first playoff win in almost a decade against the New York Yankees and a thrilling seven-game AL Championship Series victory over the Seattle Mariners before ultimately succumbing to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a hard-fought Game 7.
Shortstop Bo Bichette, a key player in the World Series, received a qualifying offer for the 2026 season as the Blue Jays aim to retain his services. Other notable free agents on the team include Max Scherzer, Chris Bassitt, and Seranthony Dominguez. With the return of pitcher Shane Bieber and a solid core of players, the Blue Jays are poised for another strong season in 2026.
Despite the challenges faced, the team’s camaraderie and resilience were notable features of the past season. Guerrero Jr.’s stellar performances, supported by emerging talents like Addison Barger and Nathan Lukes, showcased the team’s depth and potential. Looking ahead, the Blue Jays are focused on building on their success and ultimately claiming a World Series title.
Bench coach Don Mattingly will not be returning next season, while the team is preparing for spring training in mid-February in Florida, with the regular season set to begin on March 26 against the Athletics.