All articles tagged with #ross atkins
Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins dismissed the idea of trading stars Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, emphasizing their importance to the team and ongoing discussions about long-term extensions. Despite the team's struggles and trade rumors, Atkins believes in their future with the Blue Jays and noted their recent improved performances.
Toronto Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins stated that trading Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Bo Bichette "doesn't make any sense" despite inquiries from other teams. Both players are under contract through 2025, and the team is discussing contract extensions with them. Atkins emphasized their talent and importance to the team, and mentioned Guerrero might play some games at third base to boost the struggling offense. Despite the team's poor performance, Atkins is not rushing to make changes, including with manager John Schneider.
Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins discussed various topics during the end-of-season press conference, including the decision to pull Jose Berrios early in the final game, the future of manager John Schneider and the coaching staff, and the team's offensive struggles in 2023. Atkins emphasized that in-game decisions are solely Schneider's responsibility and expressed support for his decision. While Schneider will return as manager in 2024, the future of the coaching staff remains uncertain. The Blue Jays aim to improve their offense, which saw a decline in power and overall performance compared to the previous year. With key players hitting free agency, the team may need stronger performances from Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, Daulton Varsho, and Alejandro Kirk, or consider free agency options to bolster their offense.
Toronto Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins addressed the decision to pull pitcher José Berríos early in Game 2 of the AL Wild Card Series, stating that he was not involved in the decision-making process. The strategy was to force the Twins to go to their bench against lefty Yusei Kikuchi, but it resulted in two runs for Minnesota and a 2-0 loss for the Blue Jays. Despite the communication with players, the decision surprised the team. Atkins stands by the manager's decision and confirms that John Schneider will return as manager next year. The focus for the offseason will be improving the team's offense, which struggled throughout the season.
Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins blamed manager John Schneider for the decision to pull pitcher José Berríos early in their Wild Card Series loss to the Twins. Atkins confirmed that Schneider will return as the manager in 2024 but stated that the strategy sessions and pitching decisions were solely Schneider's responsibility. The decision to remove Berríos in the fourth inning, despite his strong performance, and replace him with Yusei Kikuchi, who allowed two runs, has been questioned. Schneider has a 0-4 record in the playoffs, and the focus is now on the controversial decision to remove Berríos.
The Toronto Blue Jays have disappointed and hurt the LGBTQ+ community by mishandling the Anthony Bass situation. The reliever spent 11 days on the roster after publicly endorsing an anti-LGBTQ+ video on social media. The Blue Jays kept Bass on the roster, rather than DFA him immediately, sending a negative message to their LGBTQ+ fans. The team's management offered little more than a statement that distanced itself from “individual players’ sentiments” in the immediate aftermath. The Blue Jays finally designated Bass for assignment on Friday, which was the start of Pride Weekend.
Toronto Blue Jays reliever Anthony Bass met with the media and apologized for sharing an anti-LGBTQ2S+ video on Instagram. General manager Ross Atkins also addressed the situation and stated that the team will not stand for behavior that is not inclusive. The Blue Jays' Pride Weekend begins Friday with events planned across three days, and Bass will catch the ceremonial first pitch.