Following a season that brought them within one victory of a World Series title, the Toronto Blue Jays have exercised manager John Schneider’s 2026 contract option, while bench coach Don Mattingly is stepping down from his role.
Mattingly, a former New York Yankees star, is leaving to spend more time with his family after reaching his first World Series. He joined the Blue Jays after the 2022 season, briefly served as offensive coordinator before the 2024 campaign, and then returned to his duties as bench coach.
“He’s had a significant [impact] and I feel like it will be lasting,” General Manager Ross Atkins said of Mattingly. “It’s something that we have to deal with in the game. We have to figure out a way to continue to improve even when we have a significant loss.”
Atkins confirmed the team had already exercised Schneider’s option and praised him for his leadership during his third full season, which saw a 20-win improvement. “Schneids has been unbelievable,” Atkins said. “He is a clear leader in this organization. Really, really good at his job and very proud to be working with him.” The team is also discussing a potential longer-term extension.
Schneider was promoted from bench coach to interim manager in July 2022, replacing Charlie Montoyo. Atkins added that he does not anticipate any other major changes to the coaching staff.
On the player front, the Blue Jays extended a $22,025,000 qualifying offer for 2026 to free-agent infielder Bo Bichette. The two-time All-Star shortstop is expected to reject the offer, but Atkins affirmed the team “will be in his market.”
In other roster news, right-hander Shane Bieber has exercised his $16 million option for the 2026 season. The team also faces decisions on key free-agent pitchers Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer, who both contributed in Game 7 of the World Series, with Scherzer starting and Bassitt appearing in relief.
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