Blue Jays Reach World Series for First Time in 32 Years

UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have reached the World Series for the first time in 32 years, marking a historic moment for the franchise. This significant achievement is attributed to a strong team culture fostered by General Manager Ross Atkins, who emphasizes “high character” in player selection.

In a press conference held earlier today, October 26, 2025, Atkins stated, “Hiring is the most important thing we do,” reinforcing how values shape the team’s identity and success. The Blue Jays’ journey to the championship has been fueled by their remarkable ability to rally, with a record 49 come-from-behind wins during the regular season.

Atkins, who has been at the helm since December 2015, reflected on the importance of relationships within the team. “This success — albeit we’re not done, with work to do — emboldens the feeling of how powerful these relationships will be,” he said.

The Blue Jays showcased their resilience by overcoming a 2-0 deficit against the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series, culminating in a thrilling Game 7 victory driven by George Springer’s three-run homer in the seventh inning.

Manager John Schneider, who has been with the organization since 2002, emphasized the significance of a welcoming culture, stating, “It’s what we’ve grasped on to, the standard we’ve set.” Schneider noted that the relationships built during Atkins’s tenure have been instrumental in establishing a winning environment.

The Blue Jays finished the regular season with a strong 94-68 record, and their deep playoff run has been a collective effort. As the team gears up for Game 1 of the World Series, Schneider highlighted the importance of integrating new players who align with their culture, citing recent acquisitions like Andres Gimenez and Max Scherzer as crucial additions.

Trades and acquisitions have been carefully considered to maintain team harmony. “We want to try to add people that are going to help,” Schneider explained, emphasizing the importance of not disrupting the existing culture.

Pitcher Louis Varland, recently traded to the Blue Jays, echoed the sentiment about the team’s cohesive environment, describing it as a “Glue Jays” culture, where “everybody’s great, friendly, and welcoming.”

This urgent update highlights the culmination of years of strategic development and relationship-building within the Blue Jays organization. Fans and players alike are now looking ahead to what could be a transformative moment in franchise history as they prepare to compete for the championship title.

The Blue Jays are set to face off against their opponents in Game 1 of the World Series, where the stakes couldn’t be higher. The world will be watching as they aim to bring home the coveted trophy.